Against All Odds: Baker County’s Jay Wilson thrives as double amputee firefighter and business owner
By Joe Hathaway on Monday, August 26th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER COUNTY — In a community where everyone seems to know your name, there’s one that stands out—not for what he’s lost, but for everything he gives.
Meet Jay Wilson, the co-owner of Appliances and More in Baker City and La Grande. He’s a business owner, a volunteer firefighter, a coach, a mentor—and a double amputee.
By the time Jay was 22, he had lost both of his legs due to a congenital birth defect. Growing up in Arizona, Jay had been active and athletic, with dreams of working in public service. His firefighting career began when he was 24 years old, and even after his surgeries, his commitment to serving others didn’t falter.
“I could sit at home and feel sorry for myself, live off the government. But no thanks,” said Jay. “I have the ability to make a living for my family, I can fight fires, and I think I’m pretty good at it—most days.”
Jay and his wife Kristin met and married in Arizona, then moved in 2014 to start a family in the tight-knit community of Haines. They now have four children.
In 2017, they opened Appliances and More in Baker City, a store that quickly became a staple in town, known for its reliable service. The business expanded in 2023 with a second location in La Grande, adding to its success.
“The old owner sold strictly appliances, but we expanded and now not only sell and repair appliances, but also sell furniture, mattresses, hot tubs, gun safes, freeze dryers, saunas, and massage chairs,” said Jay. “We really put an emphasis on selection and amazing customer service. We’re not just focused on what we sell but on making sure each customer leaves satisfied, whether we’re delivering a new appliance or helping them find the right piece of furniture.”
Appliances and More in Baker City is located at 2036 Main Street, while the new La Grande location is at 212 Greenwood St.
Even with the demands of running a business, Jay continues to volunteer with his church, local youth league, and the North Powder fire department. He also served on the board for the Haines fire department. His background in firefighting, which began in Arizona and now spans more than two decades, remains a critical part of who he is, despite having to use two prosthetic legs.
“The only limitation I face is not being able to do a leg lock on the ladder. But I’ve got a belt for that—it keeps things safe. I just try to avoid the ladder altogether. If you’re using a ladder, you’re already having a bad day,” Jay said with a smile.
One of Jay’s more memorable experiences was a recent close call during the massive Durkee Fire. He was on the front lines when a sudden flare-up, fueled by high winds, nearly trapped him and his crew. With quick thinking and calm under pressure, Jay managed to lead his team to safety.
“High winds can turn a routine call into a life-or-death situation in seconds. I knew we needed to move fast, and keeping calm made all the difference,” Jay said. “You never know what’s going to happen out there. You just focus on getting the job done and making sure everyone comes home safe.”
Even amid the busy and dangerous fire season, Jay still found time—and the strength—to help lead youth from his church on a 50-mile hike and camping trip in the nearby Eagle Cap Wilderness.
“I was taught at a young age that you look after your neighbor and that the greatest thing you can do is give back,” Jay said, reflecting on the many hats he wears. “I wouldn’t have gotten through my tough days if it wasn’t for others helping me.”
Jay’s story is one of perseverance, not only in his personal life but in the work he does for his community. There’s no drama, just quiet determination. For Jay Wilson, it’s never been about overcoming obstacles, but about showing up—day after day—for his family, his business, and his community.
