East Helena Obituary: David Allen Lay
Author: Family of David Allen Lay
David Allen Lay
Family of David Allen Lay
Age 82, of East Helena
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.
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