Although a successful competitor, Jay is remembered as a soul surfer, winning many sportsmanship awards throughout his career.

Born in Augusta, Georgia on June 16, 1978, Jay moved with his family to Santa Cruz, California, when he was just a baby.

This appreciation was rooted in an overall love for the ocean, seen in his accomplishments as a swimmer, paddler, diver, and fisherman.

In 2001, Moriarity co-authored a book with Chris Gallagher entitled, The Ultimate Guide to Surfing.

[4] Moriarity died a day before his 23rd birthday on Friday, June 15, 2001, in the Indian Ocean off the coast of the island Lohifushi in the Maldives, drowning in a freediving accident.