Jayson Paul Mess, 50, of Canaseraga, New York, passed away Saturday, June 6 in Burns, New York. He was a loving son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and an incredible friend to all who knew him. Jayson was the kind of man who could talk to anyone, and just one conversation with him could make you feel like you'd known him forever. Jayson always had a story, and it was often a story about something he had gone through that somehow matched exactly what you were experiencing. He always knew the right thing to say and gave the best advice. The advice and wisdom he gave to others are things that will stay with them forever.

Jayson grew up and spent the majority of his life in Canaseraga. He graduated from Canaseraga Central School in 1993. He went on to earn his Associate Degree in Masonry from Alfred State School of Applied Technology in 1995. He could do whatever he put his mind to, due to his determination, creativity, and natural-born talent. He was very passionate and put his heart into everything he did. He loved to refurbish things and restore them into something beautiful. He spent many years devoting himself to carpentry and even went on to start his own business with his brother Anthony, kNOw Mess Construction, in 2008. Through this endeavor, his son Corey was able to join him, learn from him, and grow his own passion for the trade. In addition to carpentry work, Jayson proved he had many talents while working various jobs including seasonal work at Swain and was always lending a hand while expecting nothing in return. In recent years, Jayson's career with Extreme Traffic Control brought him a lot of joy, where he made many new memories that he loved sharing with his family when he was home on the weekends.

Growing up in Canaseraga, Jayson developed a deep passion for the outdoors. He loved hunting, kayaking, frogging, spotlighting, gardening, and the list goes on. When he wasn't outdoors, he was most likely spending time with his parents, siblings, and children, and he seemed to love nothing more than visiting his grandchildren with presents in hand and arms open, eager for hugs. Jayson put his family above all else, and the love that he showed could be felt through all of his actions and words. His family was his reason for everything, and his unconditional love and support were never doubted.

Jayson was very strong and endured many hardships throughout his life, one being his battle with Crohn's disease. Many may not have known of this struggle since he was always more concerned about how YOU were doing. He hardly took the time to complain and would rather highlight the positivity in every situation. That is the kind of man Jayson was, always putting others first. Jayson was incredibly selfless, loving, kind, hardworking, and always a positive light to others.

Making jokes and pulling light-hearted pranks were one of the ways he showed his love. His favorite prank was putting Super Snaps under his family and friends' tires, and waiting for them to drive off and hear the loud bang. He was always finding ways to make people laugh and brighten their day.

Jayson was predeceased by his grandparents, Paul and Joyce Mess and Earl and Dolores Houghtaling. He was also predeceased by his three aunts, Bonnie White, Kathy Biddle, Elaine Mess and his two uncles Bill Houghtaling and Michael Mess.

Jayson is survived by his parents, Paul and Karan Mess; his siblings, Anthony (Mackenzie) Mess and Elizabeth Giles (Chris Vernam); and his four children; Richelle (Jed) Davis, Corey (Lindsey) Mess, Jerika (Griffin) Haley, and Jaylynn Mess (Aidan Hart).

He is also survived by his nine beloved grandchildren: Maleah Yurcic, Lincoln, Iris, and Cole Davis; Dawson, Easton, June, and Stella Mess; and Harper Haley.

He is also survived by his two nieces 1st Lieutenant Haleigh M. Freiner-Mess and Anarose Freiner-Mess; his two nephews, Conner and Ethan Giles; and his two lifelong best friends, Greg Teeter and Luke McIntosh.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Thursday, June 11, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with the funeral service scheduled for Saturday, June 13, at 11:00 AM, followed by a graveside service at Arkport Cemetery. Both the calling hours and funeral service will be held at Bender, Brown, & Powers Funeral Home, 354 Canisteo Street, Hornell New York.

In honor of Jayson's love for the Grateful Dead, friends and family are welcome to wear tie-dye to the services.

To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com on Facebook @ Brown Powers FH.