A UD Class of 1961 alumnus of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources with a degree in agronomy, Mr. Windsor did not slow in retirement and maintained his deep connections with UD. He continued to serve the Master Gardener program as an adviser and volunteer, as well as friend to his colleagues at the southern Delaware campus.

Sue Barton, professor in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences and Cooperative Extension specialist, remembers Mr. Windsor near the beginning of their mutual careers at UD.

“I remember Jay was assigned to introduce me to the industry during my UD interview in 1984! It was a fun drive around the state meeting growers and garden center operators,” Barton recalled. “He was also a ‘head nodder’ during my seminar, affirming everything I said, and helping me speak with confidence. He will be missed!”

Derby Walker, a retired Sussex County agriculture agent, worked closely with Mr. Windsor during their careers together.

“Jay had a wonderful sense of humor, and we enjoyed a unique working relationship,” Walker recalled. “His hands-on experience in the processing vegetable industry and with his family greenhouse business provided valuable expertise for the public. People trusted his advice.”

Sharon Webb, former business administrator for the Carvel Center, started her career at UD alongside Windsor, providing secretarial support for him and the Master Gardener program he oversaw. To better understand the program, Webb enrolled in an ornamental horticulture course that Mr. Windsor taught for UD at the Associate in Arts Program in Georgetown.

“I witnessed how his students connected with him,” Webb remembered. “Jay was such a great teacher and leader. Not only did I admire his work ethic and professionalism, but also he was a great mentor to me in my career at the Carvel Research and Education Center.”

Leadership and trust repeatedly surfaced when colleagues remembered Mr. Windsor’s time at UD.

“Whenever I think of leaders, Jay is at the top of the list. I've never met a more generous and humble person,” recalled Bill McGowan, retired community development extension agent based in Georgetown. “Jay led by example. He would never ask you to do something he wouldn't do and always made room for everyone.”

Valann Budischak, acting director of the UD Botanic Gardens and executive director of the Delaware Nursery and Landscape Association (DNLA), warmly recalled Mr. Windsor’s leadership qualities.

“Jay joined the DNLA in 1975. He hit the ground running, serving as board VP, and then as president in 1976,” shared Budischak. “Jay continued his service as an active board member through 2022. I met Jay in 1998 when I became the executive director of the DNLA. He was very protective of me when I first started, similar to an offensive lineman protecting the quarterback. He remained a wonderful mentor, tutor and sounding board for me over the years.”  

Tracy Wootten succeeded Mr. Windsor’s position as Sussex County horticulture agent in 2003. Her transition to her new position benefited from his guidance and mentorship.

“Jay was such a genuine person. He had many qualities that I admired,” Wootten said. “I am grateful for the time he spent with me as a young horticulture agent, but most of all for his friendship. Whether it was sharing a laugh, pondering a problem submitted to the Extension office or discussing the latest trends and technology in our industry, Jay's presence will be truly missed. What a legacy.”

Mark Isaacs, director of the Carvel Research and Education Center, spent many years working alongside Mr. Windsor.

“Jay truly exemplified the true meaning of a county agricultural agent. His work ethic and commitment to our stakeholders was outstanding. He was one of the pillars of building our Sussex County extension team. Jay’s impact on our community will be felt for many years to come.”

To read his obituary or leave online condolences, visit HSFuneralHome.com.