Submit a PhotoJustin “Jay” D. Heinz, 47, passed away on May 17, 2025, in Chandler, Arizona. Jay lived a life marked by ambition, dedication, and a deep connection to his community.
From a young age, Jay embraced an active lifestyle and a love for the outdoors. He enjoyed playing football, soccer, and baseball, as well as hiking and camping. His early involvement with the Boy Scouts of America culminated in achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. For his Eagle Scout project, Jay led the construction of a storage shed for the Hacienda de Los Angeles foundation—personally securing funding and coordinating the efforts of his troop to bring the project to completion.
Jay graduated from Corona del Sol High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically. A member of the National Honor Society and a key player on the school’s baseball team, he demonstrated a strong work ethic and leadership skills that would continue to shape his future.
He went on to attend Arizona State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. Even as a student, Jay envisioned owning and operating a sports grill—a dream that would guide his professional path.
Jay built his career through management roles at several prominent establishments including Maloney’s, Zipps, Fox and Hound, and Fat Willy’s. These experiences laid the groundwork for his next venture: becoming the managing partner at The Draft Sports Grill. With determination and vision, Jay eventually became an owner of the first location. This achievement marked the realization of his long-held dream and set the stage for expanding The Draft Sports Grill brand across Arizona.
Known for his vibrant personality and infectious humor, Jay had an extraordinary ability to make others feel welcome. Whether working alongside staff or greeting guests at The Draft Sports Grill, he brought warmth and positivity to every interaction.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jay found joy in golf, travel, sport shooting, and most importantly, spending time with his cherished family. These moments were central to his life and reflected the deep love he held for those closest to him.
Jay is lovingly remembered by his wife Jillian; their children Brody and Reagan; his parents Daniel and Linda Heinz; sister Shannon Cox; and grandmother Janet Robson. He was preceded in death by this grandfathers William Heinz and Wilbur “Mike” Robson, as well as grandmother Lorraine Heinz.
A service and reception honoring Jay’s life will be held on July 11, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert, Arizona. Anyone wishing to continue the celebration can join the family at The Draft Sports Grill, 542 W. Baseline Rd., Suite 101, Mesa, Arizona following the services.
Jay’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched with laughter, generosity, and unwavering positivity. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.
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We remember Jay in his younger years and how very proud of him you all always were and rightfully so! He will be missed but his memory will carry on in your hearts forever ❣️ God bless Jay and all the family Hugs Linda
Jay was always such a bright light. His quick wit and infectious laugh always brought a smile to the room and to our faces. Jay’s absolute #1 trait that was always obvious to anyone who knew him, was his complete devotion to his family. He loved Jill. Brody, and Reagan with his whole being. They were the center of everything he did. He was so loved and will be sorely missed. Love and hugs to his family.
So sorry for your loss! My thoughts and prayers are with you Shannon and the rest of the family.
Dan and Linda….so, so sorry for you loss. Jay was a good guy, and I know you were very proud of him. May God Bless and keep you and give peace to Jay’s wife and kids.
I didn’t know Jay personally, but I grew up with Jill and the family. Most of our connection has been through Facebook and social media. Still, I’m close in age to Jay and share a similar life—raising kids, chasing dreams, and carrying aspirations. I feel this loss deeply, as I’ve felt others like it in my own life.
I want to offer a personal prayer to the family:
“The Lord brings great light into the world, filling the shadows with His radiance and shaping the lives of those around it.”
Jay was that light. And while his absence will be deeply felt, I believe Jill and the kids will carry that light forward. They will follow Jesus and know that God is with them. They’ve known loss before, and they are strong. They will carry on—and become the light their husband and father would want them to be.
I love you all. I’m so sorry for your loss. But remember—you didn’t just lose a husband, a dad, a brother, or a son. Heaven gained an angel who will forever be watching over you.
He was a wonderful man. Best boss I’ve had by far. A friend to all and clearly a loving husband and father. He will be missed by many. Blessings to his mourning family
Our hearts go out to Jillian and her family. Although we interacted with jay several times we were always happy that he was in our company during family gatherings. May he rest in peace and may God watch over his family.
He was a great human husband and father who enjoyed life and a very good man when discussing baseball life and family. He had a wealth of friends I just hope he included myself with in his friendship.
God bless you big guy.
I only met Jay a few times but I did feel his immediate warmth and sincere kindness. He will be missed. My deepest sympathy to his family
We send our heartfelt sympathy to his parents and his wife and children.
Grew up playing little league with Jay and played sports throughout the years throughout HS. Great man. He will be missed. Thinking of your family.
Dear Jill and kids,
I was heartbroken to learn of Jay’s passing. He was more than just a boss; he was a mentor and a truly remarkable person. I’ll always remember his incredible willingness to support his team, exemplified by how generous he was, even letting me interview for both myself, as well as my husband at the time. . That kind of gracious and supportive leadership made a lasting impact on me. He will be deeply missed.
With deepest sympathy,
Tiffany Leigh Swanson
Jay was always warm and friendly to me always made sure at any gathering to make you welcome. I will miss that
I met Jay many years ago when he was managing Zipp’s Sports Bar. I would go most work days to enjoy a lunch sitting at the bar. Always friendly, in a good mood, we would chat about almost any subject. He found out I liked to do the crossword puzzle in the paper so he would set aside for me. Here also I met his wife Jill and watched over the years as the two of them created a family and a great life together. Watched as he became a proud, caring father to Brody and then Reagan. The hurt they all must feel is unimaginable. May he rest in peace, blest by God for being a good husband, a great father to his children and good friend to many who came in contact with him at work or socially. Goodbye Jay, you are missed…
A true friend who I cherished and respected immensely. I think of him everyday. His legacy will live on.