James H Hays

James Harrison Hays, "Jim", 88, peacefully fell asleep in death on Sunday, January 30, 2022, at the Cleveland Clinic/Akron General Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center in Fairlawn. He was born on August 16, 1933, Dad grew up in Goodyear Heights and graduated from East High School in 1952. He started working for Goodyear in April of 1955 but in 1956 he was drafted and later stationed in Wiesbaden, Germany. After his discharge from the Army in 1958 he traveled to Scottsdale, Arizona and reconnected with Patricia Smith, "Pat", whom he had met prior to being drafted into military service. Soon thereafter they were married and returned to Akron, Ohio after Dad was recalled from layoff by Goodyear. Within the next few years, they had two children, Brian, and Donna. Before the birth of Donna, he purchased property in Tallmadge, and had a new home built. The property was large enough for Dad to plant and maintain a good size garden in the back of the lot. In addition to gardening, Dad enjoyed barbecuing, camping and traveling.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Pat; sister Doris Farrar; and brother Ivan Hays.
Dad will be missed by his children, Brian (Kristine) Hays and Donna (Jurgen) Halbheer of Richmond, BC, Canada; siblings Walter (Carol) Hays and Eileen (Gary) Glissman of Westminister, CO; along with many nieces, nephews and close friends.
Later in life, Jim became a dedicated, baptized member of the East Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses in Mogadore, OH. Dad looked forward to the peaceful conditions promised under God's Kingdom (Isa 65:21-23)
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at 3:00 PM via Zoom Video Conferencing. Details on how to attend can be provided by calling 234-813-9361.
The family invites you to sign the online guestbook and share fond memories.