In memory of Jay Johnson, a close friend of the Madison County High School (MCHS) baseball program, the MCHS Cowboys baseball team wear a left sleeve patch on their uniforms that simply say “Jay.”
Johnson made a huge impact on everyone a part of the team and supported the Cowboys team unconditionally.
Diamond Club President Maria Tyson remembers a time when Johnson was immensely supportive.
“One season, we were struggling….. really struggling. Jay and I spoke several times about what we could do to help the boys get out of the slump,” said Tyson. “He sent me a text the next day [that] said 'I am bringing 20 whoppers and 20 orders of chicken nuggets! We are going to help these boys enjoy this game we call baseball.' We looked at each other and said, 'Whatever it takes!'”
With his uplifting spirit, Johnson fed the team and led them to victory, as the Cowboys won the game that night.
“Jay had a heart for baseball and anything that involved [the players.] His faith made him such a strong man,” said Head Coach Terry Barrs. “He was a true friend.”
“I didn’t really know Jay all that well, but in the few conversations we did have, you could tell he had a heart for Christ and a passion for his family,” said Coach Jason Fletcher.
Although Johnson is gone, he is not forgotten and is no doubt proud of the players and coaches for all of their accomplishments.
“Jay will be missed, but I know he is always watching over our Cowboys on that hill,” said Tyson.
The Madison County High School Cowboys baseball team display left sleeve patches on their uniforms that read “Jay” in honor of longtime friend of the baseball program, Jay Johnson. In the front row, pictured from left to right, are: Dustin Bass, Hunter Burt, Jatavious Prince, Steven Walden, Kris Allen, John Flournoy, Jae Mitchell and Dylan Bass. In the back row, pictured from left to right, are: Coach Zach Dykes, Coach Jason Fletcher, Caleb Hollingsworth, Alex Tyson, De’Varion Edwards, Gabe Miller, Jacob Johnson, Dillon Burns, Trey Mitchell, Coach DJ McKnight and Head Coach Terry Barrs.