Jason "Jay" Malko, age 51, passed away Friday, August 4, 2023, at Tufts Medical Center.  Born on June 5, 1972, to the late Geraldine (Murphy) and S. Joseph Malko, Jay enjoyed his years growing up in Salem and made many friends.

While he was diligent with his Salem High School (SHS) studies, Jay's favorite activity was basketball.  As an avid basketball fan, he continued to watch or attend as many Celtics games as possible.  After his 1991 SHS graduation, he continued his studies at North Shore Community College.

For many years, Jay enjoyed a career in customer service retail.  He was best known for supporting his customers.  Regardless of the request or need, Jay was always willing to help.

More recently, however, Jay focused on contributing to society.  He volunteered at the Hope House in Boston, a treatment center for those living with a substance use disorder.   In that role, Jay improved his culinary skills, so that he could help prepare meals for the residents.  Again, Jay was known to help those in need.  Jay's final act to help others was his gift of life through organ donation.  His tissue, corneas, and kidneys have been donated to improve and/or extend the lives of others.

Jason will be deeply missed by his sister Julie (Malko) Cheon and her husband Rod of Marathon, Fl; his aunts and uncles, Laura (Murphy) and James Palin of Peabody, Mary Beth (Murphy) and Eric Nelson of Cambridge; and his cousins Andrew Thomas of Tampa, Fl, Timmy Palin and his husband Michael Lopez of Lowell, Sarah Nelson and her husband John Candeias of Lynnfield and Emily Nelson of Roslindale.

Visiting hours will be held at the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St, Salem on Thursday August 10, 2023 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.  Committal services will be held privately.  Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.  For additional information or online guest book please call 978-744-0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.