Jared Thomas Centra, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at his home with his family by his side. Jared was 46.

A visitation with family present will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Miller Funeral Home - Downtown, 507 S. Main Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.

Jared Thomas Centra was born on February 10, 1979, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to David and Kathryn (Kascoutas) Centra, and joined his older brother, Joshua. Jared came into this world in less-than-ideal conditions.  He was born with multiple physical and cognitive anomalies and endured numerous medical crises, procedures, and setbacks throughout his life. Jared lived at home full-time with his parents and brother until he was 10 years old and then transitioned to a Southeastern Behavioral Health residential facility, where he also attended their educational program.  For the last 35 years, he divided his time between his group home and his childhood house. While his life was undoubtedly a struggle, it was also filled with much laughter, thrilling entertainment, and legendary tales of strength.

Some of you reading this may not have spent much time with Jared, but you have heard countless stories about him through his parents or his brother. While many of those stories are filled with grief and sadness, there are endless moments of happiness and success. He had many interests and activities he enjoyed throughout various stages of his life, but one constant was his love of water.  If you didn't find him floating in the Woodlake pool every Wednesday and Sunday, he could be seen enjoying his jacuzzi bath in his home.

He loved any and every amusement park ride and always signed "more" as soon as a ride would finish. When Jared was able to walk, he ran or danced (also known as Jaraerobics). When he was able to see, he looked at everything with genuine awe and amazement, especially anything shiny or colorful. He was also extremely tactile and found comfort in weighted blankets, numerous sensory gadgets, or just a good old-fashioned massage. He thoroughly appreciated the things in life that many of us may take for granted.  From walking independently, feeling the sunshine on his face, or enjoying a warm cuddle with family or staff, he made the most of every opportunity to experience joy.

Jared adapted to virtually every setback he encountered in life. His personality and communication skills were in no way silenced by his limitations. If he trusted and loved you, his hugs were firm and sincere. If he didn't trust you or felt threatened, his hair pulling and occasional scratching were just as firm and sincere. Jared was never able to speak formally in his life, but he was able to verbalize some words, such as "mom", "bath", "more", and "off".  He relied mainly on sign language to communicate, but could also convey his point with a variety of very specific vocal sounds, which became well known to anyone who spent time with him.

There is a common phrase among the Centra/Kascoutas family regarding the cards Jared was dealt in life: "If Jared didn't have bad luck, he would have no luck at all."  That statement is not entirely accurate. Jared was fortunate enough to be born to two parents who loved him, cared for him, and stood by his side unwaveringly through 46 of the most stressful, painful, and worrisome years a parent could ever endure.  In this respect, Jared hit the Jackpot—the big one.

His life should serve as a testament to resilience, perseverance, patience, and unconditional love.

Left to cherish his memory are his parents, David and Kathryn; his brother, Josh (Monica Taylor De Centra); his nieces, Amaya and Antonella; seven aunts and uncles; and 20 first cousins.

"It Takes a Village to Raise a Child"

In Jared's case, he had a small city.  We want to acknowledge all the caretakers (Synergy), doctors, nurses, hospital staff, masseuses, therapists, hairstylists, etc., who took care of him and always treated him with dignity and respect.  A special and heartfelt thank you to ALL current and former Southeastern employees.  Your unwavering commitment to enriching Jared's life will never be forgotten and will always be appreciated.

We are truly grateful to everyone who is here today to support our family. Your presence means a great deal to us.