Jeffrey Scott Finley was a man whose kindness, compassion, and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Born in Amarillo, Texas, on November 10, 1962, Scott grew up with a love for engines, hard work, and the open road. After earning his Diesel Mechanics degree from Oklahoma State Tech, he spent more than three decades in the heavy equipment industry, building a career marked by dedication, integrity, and a willingness to help others.
My own story with Scott began in grade school. Life eventually took us in different directions, but years later our paths crossed again. We were blessed to share the final chapter of his life together, and I will always be grateful for the love, laughter, faith, and adventures we shared. He remains woven into the fabric of my story.
Scott accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and sought to live out his faith through kindness, humility, and genuine care for those around him. Whether lending a hand, offering encouragement, or simply making time for someone who needed a friend, Scott had a way of making people feel seen and valued.
One of Scott’s greatest passions was motorcycling. From the time he was eleven years old, motorcycles became more than a hobby—they became part of who he was. As a certified Rider’s Edge Safety Instructor, he was passionate about helping others ride safely and confidently. He also loved exploring the beauty of North America, making unforgettable memories on long Harley-Davidson road trips throughout the United States and Canada.
Those who loved Scott remember his quick smile, his generous heart, his unwavering loyalty, and his ability to make others feel welcome. He believed that time spent with the people you love is never wasted.
In 2015, Scott’s life was cut far too short by Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), a rare and devastating illness that changes lives with heartbreaking speed. Like so many families affected by CJD, we found ourselves facing a disease we had never imagined, with little time to prepare and far too many unanswered questions.
Scott’s legacy is not defined by the disease that took him, but by the life he lived—with faith, compassion, courage, and a heart that always found room for others. It is my hope that by honoring his memory through the CJD Foundation, greater awareness, education, support, and research will one day spare other families from experiencing this devastating disease.
Scott’s story reminds us that a life is measured not simply by its length, but by the love, kindness, and hope we leave behind. His memory continues to inspire me, and I will always be grateful that, after all those years, our paths crossed again.