David Allen Lay
May 14, 1943 – September 9, 2025
Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, David Allen Lay, returned to his Heavenly Father on September 9, 2025, at the age of 82. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, David led a life of faith, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and the gospel.
David was born on May 14, 1943, in Red Lodge, Montana, the eldest child of Raymond and Esther Lay. His early years were spent in a log cabin built by his father and grandfather near Roscoe and Luther, Montana, a setting that fostered his lifelong love of the outdoors. At the age of two, the family moved to Helena, Montana, settling into the home on Country Club Avenue where David would grow up and form cherished memories.
An adventurous and active boy, David spent his youth hunting, fishing, and exploring the Scratch Gravel Hills with his brother Dennis. He attended Kessler Grade School and Helena High School, and from an early age was involved in building the Church community, helping his father and brother construct the chapel at 1610 6th Avenue.
David was baptized at the age of eight in the YMCA swimming pool along with his parents. That same year, he also received his Patriarchal Blessing, a testimony of his early and enduring commitment to the gospel. He later served a full-time mission in the Washington, D.C. area, where he labored faithfully as an elder and strengthened his testimony.
Following his mission, David married his eternal companion, Marlene Munyan, in the Idaho Falls Temple. Together they began their life in Missoula, saving for an adventure that would take them “North to Alaska.” David courageously drove the rugged Alcan Highway and spent eight years in Alaska, fully embracing the wilderness and raising their young children, Wade and Shelley, amid its beauty.
David also proudly served his country in the Alaska Army National Guard where he received training in forward infantry and marksmanship. David served as the marksmanship NCO for the entire state of Alaska. His time in the military further shaped his sense of duty, discipline, and perseverance—traits that defined the rest of his life.
Eventually, the family returned to Montana, settling in Ulm, where David worked as a training supervisor for New York Life Insurance in Great Falls. There, on a small 10-acre farm, he and Marlene raised animals, grew alfalfa and an abundant garden, and welcomed four more children: Doug, Jared, Andrew, and Beth. David especially loved working with his team of horses and taking pack trips into the backcountry.
At the age of 35, during one of those treasured trips, David contracted viral encephalitis from a mosquito bite, resulting in partial paralysis. Though he bore a lifelong limp from the experience, his recovery was nothing short of miraculous and a testament to his resilience and faith.
In 1989, feeling the pull of home and family, the Lays moved back to Helena, livestock and all. It has remained David’s home ever since.
Throughout his life, David served faithfully in numerous Church callings: in two bishoprics in Helena, a branch presidency in Cascade, and as a High Councilman for eight years. Of all his callings, one of his most treasured was being a Scout leader for deaf Cub Scouts in Great Falls—an experience he often spoke of with joy and tenderness.
David’s legacy is one of quiet strength, enduring faith, deep love for the outdoors, and unwavering devotion to his family. He was a man who gave generously of his time and spirit, who lifted others with his kindness, and who bore his trials with grace.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Marlene (Munyan) Lay, and by his children: Doug (Kim) Lay, Wade Lay, Shelley Lay, Jared (Heather) Lay, Andrew (Richelle) Lay, Beth (Tori) Kerr, and Randy Lay. He also leaves behind 18 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren on the way, all of whom were blessed to call him Dad and Grandpa.
His life was a living testimony of the scripture, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” We rejoice in the knowledge that families are forever and that we will be reunited with him again.
Viewing hours will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 15, 2025, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints; 1610 6th Avenue Helena. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Interment with military honors will be at Forestvale Cemetery immediately following the funeral service.
Service Schedule
Visitation
10:00 a.m.
Monday September 15, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1610 6th Avenue
Helena, Montana
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Monday September 15, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1610 6th Avenue
Helena, Montana
Burial with Military Honors
Immediately following the Funeral Service
Monday September 15, 2025
Forestvale Cemetery
690 Forestvale Road
Helena Valley,
Reception
Immediately following the burial
Monday September 15, 2025
Cultural Center of the Church
,
Service Schedule
Visitation
10:00 a.m.
Monday September 15, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1610 6th Avenue
Helena, Montana
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Monday September 15, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1610 6th Avenue
Helena, Montana
Burial with Military Honors
Immediately following the Funeral Service
Monday September 15, 2025
Forestvale Cemetery
690 Forestvale Road
Helena Valley,
Reception
Immediately following the burial
Monday September 15, 2025
Cultural Center of the Church
,
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Linda Meuret says
Oh!! Dear Marlene and family. Bill and I mourn with you. What a gallant fight David did all these years. He always was so strong in his family and church. Marlene, you are a saint and have been one for years as you have sacrificed for David. Your family is blessed because of your strength and commitment. We love you. Hugs…
Heather Lay says
The most kind and patient man you can imagine. He was a wonderful father to my husband. His memory and legacy will live on with his grandchildren and the many lives he touched.
Tina Lloyd says
My Uncle Dave was a truly wonderful man. I will always cherish the summers I spent in Great Falls with his family on the farm. His love for the outdoors and his unwavering faith were truly inspiring. Life wasn’t always easy, but the love shared between Uncle Dave and Aunt Marlene was something rare and beautiful—a love that stood the test of time. You will be deeply missed, Uncle Dave, but forever remembered. Rest in peace. ❤️
Jolene Hurst says
Brother Lay was such a kind, gentled spirited man. He was wonderful to work with when he was in the Bishopric and I was RS President. He had such a fun sense of humor.
Blessings to his family as they figure out life without him.
Brent Wilcock says
I will miss my friend. Dave was unwavering in his service and dedication. I loved his sense of humor and he was such a great lover of the outdoors. Till we meet again.