Iconic Texas Private Investigator, Jay J. Armes, Passes Away at 92

El Pasoans were shocked and saddened to hear the news that beloved famous El Paso Private Eye, Jay J. Armes, has passed away at the age of 92

When we think of superheroes, we often imagine them donning capes and battling villains. But sometimes, real-life heroes exist in our world, and Jay J. Armes Sr. was certainly one of them. With his larger-than-life persona and extraordinary career, Jay Sr. became a legend in his own right, embodying resilience and determination.

In a heartfelt tribute on his Facebook page, Jay J. Armes’ son, Jay J. Armes III, shared photos of his father along with a tribute to his dad, writing: 

"Although I always knew this day would come, the difficulty of this moment has not fully set in. My father, Jay J. Armes Sr., has been called to be with our Lord. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family." 

 

At 92, Jay J. Armes Sr. had lived a life filled with incredible challenges and triumphs, surviving countless dangerous situations throughout his career.

The Story of Jay J. Armes Sr.:

Jay J. Armes Sr. lost both his hands in a tragic explosion at the age of 12, but he never let that slow him down. His son recalls: 

“Despite that tragic accident, my father never allowed it to hold him back. He became one of the best and most respected private investigators in the world.”

Jay J. Armes Sr.’s career spanned over 67 years and included high-profile cases, acting roles, and even an action figure modeled after him. 

“My father had a great sense of humor, a strong work ethic, and a love for exotic animals, especially tigers.” 

And despite his many achievements, Jay J. Armes Sr. always credited his success to his faith, saying his Lord and Savior guided him through every case.

Jay J. Armes Legacy in El Paso:

Growing up, my fondest memories of Jay J. Armes and his legacy was that beautiful and mysterious Lower Valley mansion that sat on North Loop Dr. 

However, after six decades, the two-story, 9-bedroom, 8-bath home, and the nearly six acres estate was put up for sale back in 2020 and later was demolished. 

The iconic mansion was also home to wild animals. Armes had  22 different species that include panthers, horses, a chimpanzee, ostriches, a puma and a Siberian Tiger.

Jay J. Armes In Hollywood:

Apparently Jay J. Armes was a well known person in the Hollywood world as well. Back in June, an episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! Featured guest Norman Reedus who brought up the iconic private detective. 

Kimmel did not know who Armes was but Reedus made sure to educate Jimmy on this iconic private detective!

And apparently Jay J. Armes also saved the son of the world's greatest actor, Marlon Brando

Jay J. Armes Sr. truly did it his way—leaving behind a legacy that will live on for generations.