Jay Reese Brownlee

Jay Reese Brownlee, 59, died April 17, 2026 peacefully at home on a bluebird Maine day surrounded by the love of his family. He was the beloved husband of Kathleen "Kassie" Stevens and the devoted stepfather to Nora Zeigler.

Jay attended Andrews High School in Andrews, Texas, where he was an honors graduate and a first-team All-State offensive tackle for the Andrews Mustangs football team. He attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, majoring in political science.

Jay led a life of the mind and was interested in science, space, music and philosophy. He was grateful to participate in the cutting-edge cancer research trials at Dana Farber Cancer Institute and believed that if his participation in the trials helped even one person, then his participation was worth it. He enjoyed playing guitar and spending time with Kassie. Last summer, Jay was extremely proud that their chickens won two blue ribbons at the MOFGA Common Ground Country Fair for their eggs.

In addition to his wife and stepdaughter, Jay is survived by his parents, Elvin Jr. and Linda Brownlee; his brother, Elvin Brownlee III and wife, Pam; their children, Cason and Eric and wife, Britney; their two children, Brax and Beau Jasper. He is also survived by his uncle, Reo Brownlee and his wife, Pat, and his uncle Jimmy Neal Bond, all of west Texas. He will be sadly missed by his extended Maine family, including Winfred Stevens, Chris and Amy Brook, Sara Stevens, Seth McLain, and their families.

Jay cherished his dear friends including Donna and Scott Semel, Michael Marsh and Lilith Nance, and his friends at Northern Kingdom Music.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Lisa, Tracy, and Amy and the staff from the Lafayette Family Cancer Center, the team at the Dempsey Center, and his providers from Dana Farber Cancer Institute, for their compassionate care.

Relatives and friends are invited to share conversation and refreshments from 4pm-6pm on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the Tarratine Club, 81 Park Street in Bangor, Maine.

Gift's in Jay's memory may be made to the Bangor Humane Society, 693 Mount Hope Ave., Bangor, ME. 04401