Obituary of Donald Ray Hays

Donald Ray “Doc” Hays was born on December 30, 1936 in Portland, MO. He passed away Sunday, September 15, 2024 at his home in Foley, MO at the age of 87. Doc was a peaceful, talented man who lived a quiet life. He was an artist whose wood carvings can be found coast to coast. He had an avid interest in horticulture, astronomy and chemistry. Doc loved fishing and fished the waters from Baja to Maine. Doc served in the United States Air Force as an In-Flight Mechanic for Strategic Air Command. Doc’s most prized possession was his own hand written cookbook. Inside is a slip of paper. John 21: Jesus said unto him feed my sheep. Doc was father to nine children: Tia Taylor, Tammy Roth, Theresa Nelson, James Hayes, Donald (Roho) Hayes, Tina Chamberlain, Amy Lantrip, Michael Hayes and Johnny Hayes; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition he was stepfather to Guylia Janes Phelps, Gary Janes and Kenna Heitman. He was preceded in death by his beloved companion and fishing partner, Stella Potts Janes. Memorials may be made to Operation Backpack at the Lincoln County R2 School District.