Jay Merrill Humburg passed away on Feb. 3, 2023, and is now enjoying the presence of his Savior. He was born on March 10, 1933, in La Crosse, Kansas. He was predeceased by his parents Merrill M. and Dorothy V. (Meyer) Humburg. Dr. Humburg has one sister, Carolyn Brewer (Mac), of Tucson, Arizona, and many nieces and nephews.
Dr. Jay Humburg married the love of his life, Margaret McCall from Auburn, in 1963, and they would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary June 22 of this year. They have two children: a daughter, Merrillee Humburg Reese; granddaughter, Kayla; a son, Kenneth Humburg (Cheryl); and grandson, Max. Bobby Shapouri joined the family at the age of 11 in 1986. In addition, Jay was also father and grandfather to devoted friends Jack and Melissa Manifold, their seven children and eight grandchildren; Bill/Bubba and Rachael Jones, their two daughters, a son and two grandchildren.
Jay was a graduate of Kansas State University in 1957. He was a member of the Acaica Fraternity, where he served as president. He practiced veterinary medicine for several years in Broken Bow, Nebraska, in a large animal practice. Many adventures were had, and it was a great experience for a newly married couple.
In 1967, Dr. Humburg joined a Kansas State project with AID in Nigeria. Jay was professor there for five years to aid in the building of a veterinary school. It was a very special experience. Many years later, he spent one year in Zambia, Africa. The countryside, the people and the many safaris taken were highlights in their lives.
Dr. Humburg joined Auburn University in 1973 after his time in Nigeria. He was a professor of large animal surgery and medicine from 1973 to 2000.
After retiring from Auburn University in 2000, Dr. Humburg moved to the Island of Grenada. He was instrumental in helping to develop the veterinary school at St. George University. Upon retirement in 2015, he was awarded as the “Distinguished Professor” of Grenada.
Dr. Humburg also served as a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Association Equine Practitioners, American Board of Veterinary Practitioners and served as president of that organization in 1987.
His life revolved around his family and veterinary education. During the course of his career, he taught more than 3,000 students from many countries and was known as “The Legend” far and wide. Dr. Humburg was a man of great integrity. His smile will be missed, for he was deeply loved. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His people” – Psalm 116:15
On Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, a private burial service was held at Town Creek Cemetery. A Celebration of Life was held at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Auburn.
Donations to Honor Dr. Jay Humburg can be made to: The Owens Center, 607 N. College St., Auburn, Alabama 36830.