James "Roy" Hays

In Loving Memory of:

James “Roy” Hays

March 6, 1946 – October 16, 2026

James “Roy” Hays, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandparent, respected mentor and loyal friend passed away on October 16, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, lessons, experiences, love and laughter. His life was defined by honesty, integrity, hard work and unconditional love for the people around him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Karen Hays, their four children: Kim Woodard (Forrest), Kyla Mott, Karrie Morrison (Greg) and James Roy “Bubba” Hays, Jr. (Tiffany) and his sister, Bobbie Jean Larrabee. In addition, his legacy will carry on through their 18 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and an endless number of extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father (William Hays), mother (Etta Hays), brother (Bill Hays) and one grandson.

Roy had a way of making a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was a proud man, a protector and a provider. Although sometimes raw and unexpected, one could always trust that his advice was solid and sincere. If he had something you needed, he gave it effortlessly…even when it meant he would probably never get it back. Whether family, friend or stranger, if there was a need he did his best to lend a helping hand.

As a 59-year member of the IBEW Electricians Union, Roy was dedicated to his trade and union beliefs. Over the course of his career, he held multiple officer positions within the local. His knowledge, craftsmanship, experience and work ethic earned him the respect of those privileged enough to work alongside him. Beyond his knowledge of the electrical trade, he possessed remarkable skills in fabrication, pipe bending and welding. For generations, he built swamp buggies, tracks, airboats, dog boxes and countless other creations. His exceptional work has impacted many and is still largely evident through the work of others.

Roy was an avid hunter and fisherman. He shared his passion for hunting and fishing with the people closest to him. J. W. Corbett could arguably have been considered his home away from home. He built his own tradition of spending “opening weekend” of general gun in the Corbett and for 60 plus years he has done so without fail. The hunt, the company, the campfires, the poker games, the holidays, the beverages, reflections from the past, camp hopping and an occasional altercation were all part of the draw for him to be there.

Roy was also a longtime Masonic brother of Palmwood Lodge 303. His strength in character, generous wisdom, loyalty, support and integrity encompassed the core values of this brotherhood.

Most who were lucky enough to have met him, will never forget him and probably have a story to share about him. His advice was invaluable and his presence a source of strength.

Though his hands may no longer build, his voice may no longer be heard, his hugs may no longer be felt, and his advice no longer just a call away, the values he taught, the knowledge he shared and the memories he made will live on for generations. He is never gone so long as we continue to remember him, talk of him and share his legacy.

He was a good man, a hardworking man, a family man and a man of his word. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Rest easy Roy. May the woods be quiet, the waters be full and the memories you left behind continue to bring comfort and smiles to all who loved you. Your work here is done, but your legacy lives on forever.