Surat Jay Santi

Surat Jay Santi, 70, of Marble Hill, passed away peacefully at his home on April 26, 2026.

Born in Hat Yai, Thailand, on August 14, 1955, under the name Sikiang Saechuen, Jay began a remarkable journey that would take him across the world and into the hearts of many. He moved to the United States prior to 1971 and attended Christian Brothers College in St. Louis. During this time, he was deeply blessed by the kindness and support of his host family, Mary and Peter Racher, who helped guide him as he began his new life in America. Jay graduated from Christian Brothers College in 1973 and went on to continue his education at Southeast Missouri State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in agriculture in 1978.

Following college, Jay began working at St. Francis Medical Center as a maintenance worker. However, his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit quickly led him into a lifelong career as a business owner. Alongside a close friend, he opened Pagoda Gardens in Cape Girardeau, which was soon followed by Pagoda South in Sikeston. After selling his portion of that venture, Jay opened the Woodland Steakhouse in Marble Hill, marking the beginning of his deep roots in the community.

Jay’s drive and vision led him to open several successful businesses over the years, including Jay’s Trading Post and Pawn. In 2000, he established Jay’s BBQ, which flourished over the next 18 years and eventually expanded into Jay’s Concession, a local food truck. Never one to sit still, Jay later opened Jay’s Smokehouse in Jackson. His passion for staying active and involved also led him to purchase Wayne and Sandy’s Hutch, a local food stand that became a cherished part of his family life. He especially enjoyed working there alongside his loved ones, creating lasting memories together.

In his later years, Jay spent time working in the kitchen at Red Lobster before officially retiring. Retirement, however, did not slow him down, he found joy in yard work, gardening, and continuing to stay active.

Surat Jay Santi was united in marriage to Lisa Wells on October 7, 1978. The two met in 1973 during college and quickly became inseparable. Their love endured for 47 years, built on devotion, partnership, and shared adventures. Together, they raised three children: Samuel, Nicole, and Jessica. As a family, they made many trips to Thailand and embraced the many journeys and ventures Jay pursued throughout his life.

Jay is survived by his wife: Lisa Santi; children: Nicole Santi, Samuel Santi and Jessica (Grant) Lehmann; grandchildren Addison Lehmann, Zane Lehmann and Ryleigh Manche; brother: Santan. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Suntone, Uthai, Sister #1, Sister #2, Rian, Surat and Somsi.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Pendergrass Funeral Home is assisting with Jay’s final wishes.