Some lives are measured in years. Others are measured in the love they leave behind.

Jaydon Anthony Putnam, 18, passed away unexpectedly in a tragic car accident on October 10, 2026.

Jaydon was born on July 9, 2008, to Kelsey Schlenker and Matthew Putnam, in Idaho Falls. Jaydon grew up in Idaho Falls and moved to Rigby in 2018 and graduated from Jefferson High School in 2026.

From an early age, Jaydon had a love for sports, especially football. He had an incredible knowledge of teams, players, and seasons, and could recall football statistics and history with remarkable accuracy. Watching football was one of his favorite pastimes and something he especially enjoyed sharing with his dad.

Jaydon enjoyed playing baseball during the summer and snowboarding during the winter. He also loved a good camping trip with friends or with his family.

Jaydon also had a passion for music and cars, and dreamed of one day traveling to Tokyo, Japan, to experience its famous car culture and drifting scene. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, sharing laughs, and never passed up an opportunity for a good burrito from Alberto's.

Jaydon will be remembered for his contagious laugh, his constant smile, and his ability to find humor in almost any situation. Stubborn and strong-willed, he was never afraid to do things his own way. Beneath his playful personality was a genuinely kind and compassionate heart. He had a natural ability to make others feel welcome, valued, and heard, and his loyalty to his friends left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Although his life was far too short, Jaydon was deeply loved by his family and friends, and the memories he created will be cherished forever. And as the sun sets each evening, we will look for Jaydon in the beautiful colors of the sky, finding comfort in knowing that even though he is no longer here beside us, his light will never fade.

Jaydon is survived by his mom, Kelsey Schlenker; dad, Matthew Putnam; stepmom, Brandee Putnam; his siblings, Gibson, Owen, and Elsie; grandma, Janet Putnam; grandparents, Reuben and Kim Wilson; aunt, Justene Schlenker; and so many other aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his grandpa, Anthony “Tony” Schlenker; grandparents, Mike and Robin Quinn; grandpa, Gil Putnam; and his cousin, Annie Quinn.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Solitude Ward, 7118 S. Ledge Rock Drive in Ammon, Idaho. The family will visit with friends Friday from 6:30-8 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road, and Saturday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Ririe-Shelton Cemetery.

Forever loved, forever remembered. LLJ