James “Jim” L. Hays, 76

James "Jim" L. Hays, 76, of Sedalia, passed away Thursday, December 10th, 2015 at his home. He was born on May 4th, 1939 in Sedalia, the son of Raymond E. and Goldie M. (Hall) Hays, who preceded him in death.

On October 11, 1969 in Sedalia, MO, he was united in marriage to Phyllis L. Pollefeyt, who survives of the home.

Jim worked as the Cemetery Foreman for Crown Hill Cemtery for 23 years, retiring in 2004. He loved spending time with his family and playing with his grandchildren. Jim loved going RV camping, fishing, traveling, going to Branson and riverboat casinos. He also enjoyed woodworking, building birdhouses, decks, and cabinets.

Besides his wife, he is survived by six children, Kris Mauk (James) of Ridgeway, CO, Kathy Joseph (Tom) of Grand Rapids, MI, Donald Gibson (Kathy) of Troy, MI, James Hays, Jr. of Sedalia, MO, Mary Garrigus (Bill) of Sedalia, MO, and John Hays of Sedalia, MO; twenty three grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, George "Gabby" Hays and Raymond "Tuffy" Hays.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia, with Rev. Leora Bremer officiating.

Visitation will be held from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, December 14, 2015 at the chapel.

Burial will be at Crown Hill Cemetery, Sedalia.

Pallbearers will be Brad Wilson, James Hays, Joey Hays, Billy Garrigus, Wayne Basslee, and Raymond Hays.

Honorary bearers will be Gage Hays, Bryce Hays, Phyllis Hays, Brittany Garrigus and Kenneth Hall.