February 27, 2025

Just learned about this. I was a fan of Suddenly, Tammy! They were such a great band, thanks in no small part to Jay’s drumming. Back in the 90s, I guess, right after I discovered them, I wrote the band one of the few fan letters I’ve ever written to a band. Jay was kind enough to send a reply. My sincere condolences to Beth and family.
Jimmy D.

February 13, 2025

I only learned of Jay’s passing today. It was a shock. I met many musicians during my days at the CMJ music magazine, and Jay made an instant impression as one of the kindest, most thoughtful ones during my time there. We only talked a couple of times, but I never forgot. Deepest condolences to his friends and family. 
Aaron Clow

January 04, 2025

You will be missed my friend. 
Marc caruso

January 02, 2025

Although I only knew Jay for 13 years, he left a lasting impact on my life and the lives of many who knew him. Jay was like a big brother to me, a great friend, who loved his friends and family deeply. Jay was a peacemaker, and with his carefree yet earnest spirit, reminded me of what was really important in life, and to not fret about the trivial things. He always had a way of making me laugh, whether with his funny impersonations or quirky expressions. Jay was one of the most talented artists I’ve ever known in both his musical and audio skills, something I don’t think he ever realized fully. Jay was an intellectualist and enjoyed extensive in-depth conversations. 
One of my favorite memories with Jay was a trip to upstate NY where he proudly wore his brown tweed jacket which he dubbed “the professor jacket” as we explored the Cornell campus. We shared a love of Thai food and he knew all of the best restaurants. 
I still can’t believe he is really gone from this earth, but in heart and spirit he is still very much fully here, reminding us to laugh, and to pause, reminding us to slow down and enjoy the important things in life. 
You will always be a big brother to me, Jay. I’m thankful for the time we shared. ❤️ Love, Lisa 

January 01, 2025

For the past few days I have been attempting to process the news of Jay Sorrentino no longer being with us.
Jay was one of my best friends. We had a deep understanding and appreciation for one another on a soul-level. He would often say we were cut from the same cloth and in many regards, he was right. When separated by distance, we would often spend hours on the phone sharing deep, intellectual conversations about the world as a whole. Whenever I needed his support, he was always there for me. Jay had an unmatchable kindness, genius-level artistic integrity, and ferocious love for his friends and family. 
Jay had one primary focus in his life, he simply wanted to be a part of and create art organically through honest captures. Possibly unbeknownst to him at the time, he managed to nurture and teach many. He made people question what they considered art and why. He also helped many reach their unrealized potential or at least begin the difficult but rewarding journey to do so. Jay left a legacy behind and our job is to now give him dignity through learning from his example of pure kindness and love. 
To any artist that was lucky enough to be inspired by Jay, you now have a responsibility to carry the torch he so proudly shared. To any non-artist that met Jay, you now also have a duty and that is to always support art and try your best to respect the sacrifices made during the process of creation. 
What a remarkable friend Jay was. I am grateful for all of the memories and invaluable skills he has entrusted to me over the many years of our friendship. His passing makes me feel as though a part of myself is missing and then I remember he taught me that I am good enough.
I love you Jay, you will always be my big brother…
Ian Fedorchick

December 31, 2024

Mr. Sorrentino, Beth and Martha – so sorry to get the news of Jay’s passing. Listening to Suddenly Tammy’s music will be even more special forever. I always marveled at Jay’s finess playing the drumbs!!! Jay’s passing leaves a huge hole in our lives. I will never forget his huge personality and energy. My sympathies and love, Alice “Mom” Heitmueller

December 31, 2024

I am heartbroken that Jay is gone.  I can’t imagine your pain.  I am so sorry.I was lucky enough to consider Jay a very close friend for 30 plus years, and have him return that friendship, in spite of the fact that I had zero musical talent. He was genuinely one of my favorite people.  I already miss him so much.  Thank you for bringing him into the world to share it with the rest of us, even if it couldn’t be for long enough.
Andrea N

December 31, 2024

To the Sorrentino family,
Jay was a wonderful musician, talented producer, loving friend and a joy to be around. My first experience with jay was when he hosted our band at the churchbox studios in PA. We lived, laughed, recorded and bonded over 5 unforgettable days. As years passed Jay recorded and produced my friend Katie’s debut album in which we all 3 of us played on. He then went on to produce and record a number of my solo albums as well! Over about a 10 year period jay came in and out of my life, getting to know not only the musicians in our circle but forming strong relationships with my family as well.My mother, father and sister really enjoyed his company. I remember him as a serious, hard working artist who also had a very playful, childlike beauty to him. The last memory i have of him was when we slept out one night on jones beach field 2 on Long Island. We had a mandolin with us and wrote the beginings of one of our songs the next morning!I wish we had stayed in touch these last few years but it was not meant to be. He will be sorely misssed but rememberd fondly. Love and prayers of peace to the Sorrentino family! Be well-Johnny Cuomo

December 31, 2024

It was my good fortune to teach Jay during his junior and senior high school years. An exceptional percussionist, especially with snare drum, timpani, and (of course) drumset. Beyond musicianship, though, was a cool confidence and the remarkable willingness to always help-out. Transporting and setting-up his kit, helping move concert equipment for concert band or orchestra, always helping others with their music. Every experience was accompanied by gentle kindness. It was so rewarding to see his musical abilities develop professionally after high school. Deepest sympathy to the Sorrentino family, and rest in peace, Jay. Your musicianship and spirit will be missed.  Bill Powers

December 30, 2024

I’m so very sorry and send all my condolences to Beth and the whole family.  I will always remember Jay’s brilliance and radiance – he brought beauty and joy to so many people with his music. I used to know Jay, mostly through Kenny and Beth – and was always in awe of him. With love and deep sympathy, Gretchen Egolf 

December 30, 2024

Mr. Sorrentino, Beth, and Martha – so sad to read of Jay’s passing. One of Hempfield’s finest and I’m listening to Suddenly Tammy in remberance. Life is prescious. Scott and Michelle Radcliffe

December 30, 2024

Sending Jay’s family condolences, I worked with Jay. He was a very kind man I’m very sorry he has passed, he was way too young. RIP Jay 
Cynthia Snyder

December 30, 2024

I am in shock and so sad to hear about Jay. I can’t even begin to put into words how much I valued his (and his family’s) friendship and kindness during those HHS and early college years. Countless hours drumming in basements…laughter and fun. Life, of course, took us in many different directions, but it felt so wonderfully familiar to see Jay at the last ST reunion. We kept in touch for a while after that, but I stopped getting replies after a bit. I was hoping to track him down again soon. I wish I had done that sooner. 
 
My condolences to the entire family. I’m heartbroken. 
 
Much Love. 
Andrew Bailey

December 30, 2024

Very sorry to read about Jay’s death.  My daughter knew Beth but I don’t believe she knew Jay.  I can’t imagine the pain and sorrow you, Beth and Martha are going through.  Prayers for all of you.  He is in Heaven now.  May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Beverly Martin
Former employee of A, Y & S in the 80’s.

December 30, 2024

Jim,
So very sorry to learn the sad news. I didn’t know your son but I remember you speaking of him with pride and love. Ev and I wish you and your family the best at this terrible time
Neil Albert

December 30, 2024

My deepest condolences for the family. I hope that you find some comfort in the memories of Suddenly,Tammy!, and all the joy it brought to your fans.   I followed the band since the first days.   Unmatchable.  
Curt Burich

December 29, 2024

My deepest condolences and prayers to the Sorrentino family.  I am shocked to hear this news.  Jay was my hero in high school (Hempfield), a true friend that helped me get by difficult times.  Reconencted and saw him a few years back at the show him/Beth did in 2019 in Lancaster…that seemed like it was only last month.  May he rest in peace and prayers for the family.  
Ruben ONeill

December 29, 2024

My heart is broken and I’m saddened to hear of Jay’s passing. He was a wonderful high school classmate and always so nice. I always looked up to Jay; he was so impressive to me.
Condolences to Beth, Martha and the entire family. 
Sincerely, 
Mike Fusco

December 29, 2024

Jay was a truly wonderful friend, musician and person. I cannot imagine the loss his family is feeling, but he is loved, and missed greatly. He was a huge inspiration behind getting back into music, into trying to find joy in every day, and someone to laugh together with during the good times and at the hard times. Yell Burt Reynolds when the Replacements go quiet. Can’t believe you’re really gone. I’ll miss you Big Jay.
Alexis Pratt

December 29, 2024

Jay was a one of a kind amazing human being. I met him when I was a manager at Guitar center and he always had a smile on his face and a positive attitude. He became more than an employee but a great friend as well. This is heartbreaking to hear
Alec Thompson

December 29, 2024

Our condolences to the Sorrentino Family. Rudy & Barbara Neustadter

December 29, 2024

I’m so very sorry to hear this! My sincere condolences to the family. My brother Gregg Litwin was a good friend of Jays and now they will be reunited in Heaven. Prayers for peace and comfort during this difficult time. 
Melanie Miller

December 29, 2024

My deepest sympathies to his Family. Ive known Jay for a very long time, great loss to the music community. 
Adam Kontis

December 29, 2024

While I never met Jay, I know his cousin, Holly, please accept my sincere condolences to the family,especially Holly, Scott and Joe, he was way too young, rock on Jay
James Gaul

December 29, 2024

To my beautiful cousins hope you know your brother is in great hands now. He is with my aunt and my grama King who adored all of her grandchildren. Jay found so much happiness with his 🎼 like our whole family, it’s in our blood. He will always be with you, and at peace. We love love and we are here for you. I will light a candle today in honor of his birthday today and send lots of love way. Love you, cousin Cindy🎼🎶🌹

December 29, 2024

Beth, Martha, and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Jay’s passing. Sending my condolences and prayers. I have fond memories of Jay (and you both) growing up on Mill Mar Rd up the street and I graduated with Jay. Jennie Miller Barley

December 29, 2024

So sad to see that a very talented friend has passed . MY condolences to Jay’s family 
Thanks for the friendship and the music Jay 
Michael Wolpert

December 29, 2024

Jim; This is Mike Flanagan.I just read the obiturary for your son and was very saddened. I lost a daughter years ago and I know the depth of the loss. I had the pleasure of seeing Suddenlly Tammy once and they were really good. I’m sure you will think of Jay every day for the rest of your life. Best;
Mike Flanagan

December 29, 2024

So sorry for your loss.May your grief soon turn to happy memories.    
Marvin and carole

December 29, 2024

I remember watching Jay and Beth preform when my children were little and Beth baby sat for them. I remember when Suddenly Tammy won a contest  on the Philadelphia radio stationWhat an amazing talent Jay ( and Beth) possessed. My heart was broken for all of you when I saw Jay had based away. I hope listening to his songs and fond memories shared  with family and friends will help you through this very difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending Love, 
Henrietta Heisler(Lanzillo)