Jay Boulanger graduated from Highland High School in 1962. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from SIUE in 1967, followed by an Associates of Arts degree in Mortuary Science from SIUC in 1968, and a Masters of Science in Education from SIUC in 1970. Mr. Boulanger holds licenses as an Illinois Funeral Director/Embalmer and as an Illinois Insurance Producer.

Jay started his career with Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in 1974. Under his leadership the business expanded in 1975, acquiring the Hallemann Funeral Home in Marine and in 2000 by acquiring the Dauderman Mortuary in Alhambra and the Hamel Funeral Home in Hamel, IL. Mr. Boulanger is very active in the professional aspects of the mortuary business. He is a member of the Madison County Funeral Directors Association (Past President), Illinois Funeral Directors Association (Past President), Funeral Service Credit Union (Past President), National Funeral Directors Association (Past Committee Chair), Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice (Past President) and Preceptor for SIUC and Carl Sandberg College. Additionally, Jay has served as Deputy Coroner for Madison County and is an active member of the Museum of Funeral Customs and the National World War II Memorial.

Mr. Boulanger is very active in the community serving on the Highland Cemetery Board (President), Louis Latzer Library Board, St. Joseph’s Hospital Friends’ Board and Advisory Board and the Highland Chamber of Commerce (Past President). Additionally, Jay is a member of the Highland Lodge #583, Scottish Rites Bodies, Shriners the Highland Optimists, Highland Historical Society, Helvetia Sharpshooters, Madison County Fair Association and the Highland Business Education Alliance. Previously Jay was active with the Highland Economic Development Commission. Highland Jaycees and the Highland High School Booster Club.