It's with great sadness that righthander, Charles "Jay" Lehr was pulled entirely too early from the mound on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the age of 58. Jay coached, instructed and mentored thousands of young baseball players for the past 30 years in Central Indiana, helping many reach their dreams of playing high school, college and major league baseball. He had a signature style of combining wit, wisdom and practicality to empower his athletes to succeed as their own best coach and best self.

Baseball was more than just a sport to Jay, it was a true passion woven into all aspects of his life, from a great grandfather who played for the Indianapolis Reserves to climbing the ranks of little league ball at First Baptist Church, Carmel Dad's Club then on to Babe Ruth All-Stars, Carmel High School, Chipola College and St. Joseph's College. He met his wife of 22 years, Cindy through coaching their son Brandon. He lived his childhood dream of making baseball his vocation through head coaching positions at his alma mater for 7 years, various area high schools and too many travel teams to mention.

Later, he turned his focus to instruction and teaching at PowerAlley Baseball Academy and most recently as Pitching development analyst at ProX Athlete Development and as a member of Headline Sports Group, baseball division.

When Jay wasn't on the field (which wasn't often), he enjoyed boating with friends and family as well as vacationing in the Cayman Islands. He adored spending time with his children, grandchildren and, the second love of his life, his dog Lexi.

To Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the positive, heavenly luck may now be bestowed on the New York Yankees from their number one superfan to take the division lead. Go Yanks!

Jay is survived by his wife Cindy, daughter Meghann (Dustin), son Brandon (Abbey), mother Sandra, sisters Terri (John), Debbie and Paige (Jason), niece Grace, five granddaughters and one grandson on the way. He is preceded in death by his father Charles Jerry.

In honor of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, son, brother, friend, coach and mentor, attend a baseball game in person, savor the crack of the bat and the energy and camaraderie of being in the stadium. Play catch in the backyard with your kids.

Listen to some Elvis. Drink some Field of Dreams bourbon neat. And most of all, don't stop believing in yourself or the magic of baseball.

A celebration of life to honor Jay will be announced at a later date, and this obituary page will be updated! Please plan to check back soon for more information on the date and location of his event.