Jay Kenneth Boutwell was born August 22, 1961, to Jack and Pearle (Case) Boutwell in Alamosa, Colorado. On Monday, October 19th, he passed away early morning while at his home in Española, New Mexico. 

Jay grew up in Monte Vista, Colorado, where he graduated high school in 1980. He served in the US Navy, but his station in Cadiz, Spain was his favorite. It reminded him of home. Throughout his life, he loved spending his time outdoors and embraced nature’s beauty. Hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking were the things he enjoyed most, along with introducing/reinforcing his step sons, James and Brian’s love for the same. When not enjoying the outdoors, Jay was an avid reader of both fiction and non-fiction materials with which he strived to expand his knowledge. With his never ending imagination, he transferred his ideas back to paper and skin. Jay created custom artwork for tattoos, which he enjoyed doing until his body hindered him from continuing to do so. With the decline in his physical ability for tattooing, he continued his artwork on paper, and created some short stories and comics. He considered James and Brian as his own, and helped to raise them as such. Many friends over the years were also considered family. Always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need, these friends and family could always depend on him when in a pinch.

He is survived by brother Johnny (Jana) Boutwell of Waldport, OR; sister Juanita Boutwell of Napa, CA; and sister Barbara (Jerry) Harris of Delta, CO; along with step sons, James (Tiffany) Pacheco and Brian Pacheco. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. 

Cremation is chosen at this time, with a Celebration of Life to take place at a later date in the mountains of Southern Colorado where he will be made as one with nature as he wished.

The family of Jay Boutwell has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  505-747-7477