Justin Parker Maloney (Jay), 42, of Spokane, Washington, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, October 24, with his faithful German Shepherd, Rambo, watching over him.

Born on May 27th, 1984 in Spokane, Jay was the second of five children and oldest son of Justin and Jeanne Maloney. He grew up on the South Hill in Spokane, where he could always be found outside biking on the Bluff, practicing hockey tricks in the street in front of the house, or playing basketball, especially with his younger brothers.

At family gatherings, Jay could often be found serving as a human jungle gym for his nieces and nephews, happily joining in their games with a wide grin and his striking blue eyes sparkling. His room was a reflection of that same love for family, with hardly an inch of wall space left uncovered. There was a calendar so far out of date that it served no purpose other than displaying pictures of his oldest niece, Parks, artwork from all his nieces and nephews ranging from scribbles to torn-out coloring book pages, paw prints from his beloved dogs, and photographs of his siblings and parents at all stages of life. His walls were a testament to what mattered most to Jay: the people he loved and the memories they shared.

Whether it was skiing, biking, playing with his nieces and nephews, or teasing his parents, Jay had an infectious energy and humor that drew everyone in. From the simple joys of getting morning coffees with his dad or trying to convince his mom to make him a milkshake, it was hard to say no to Jay when his smile would light up the room and have you smiling in return. Jay was always active and up for an adventure, but usually would talk his brother Pat into going first when trying something new. While he had energy for every activity, Jay also had a calming presence that made him the favorite person for holding any napping niece or nephew, and who everyone wanted to end their day relaxing with.

Above all, Jay cherished his family, not just his immediate family, but his aunts, uncles, and cousins as well. He is survived by his parents, Justin and Jeanne, his siblings, Moiya, Annie, Patrick, and Sean, his outlaws, Kris, Kevin, and his dear Lauren, as well as the nieces and nephews who adored Jay, Parker, Kaden, Lachlan, Aoife, and Mabel.

A memorial service will be held on October 31st at 1pm at Gonzaga University’s student chapel. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of his life. All attire is welcome, and guests are encouraged to come as they are.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to animal shelters in Jay’s name, as he loved all of his dogs so much.

Jay’s legacy lives on in the people he loved and the memories created with so many who loved him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.