It is with great sorrow to announce that Arthur “Jay” Batten, III, 67, passed away at his home on February 22, 2026, with his family by his side. 

Jay was born on February 17, 1959, in Roanoke Rapids, NC to the late Arthur and Ola Batten, Jr. 

Jay worked for VEPCO, now Dominion Energy, for over 25 years until his retirement. Some of his favorite interests were race boats and photography. Jay was also an active gun enthusiast, but his greatest pleasure was being a friend to many, and he probably knew three-quarters of the folks in Roanoke Rapids. 

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur, Jr. and Ola; and Nikki. 

Jay leaves to cherish his memory his son, Jason; sister, Lisa Graham; brother, Gary (Beth); and sister, Le-Ann Hughes (James); companion, Becky; two feline fur babies, Rambo and Pebbles; and many extended family members and friends, who are too numerous to name. 

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 pm Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Wrenn Funeral Home, 1015 West 5th Street, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870. 

A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, February 27, at 11:00 am at Cedarwood Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at www.wrennfh.com

Arrangements are under the careful direction of Wrenn Funeral Home, (252) 537-4742.