Jerry Martin Hays

Jerry Martin Hays, 89, of Vincennes, Indiana passed away September 11, 2024. He was born to the late Jasper Henry "Jap" Hays and "Blanche" (Miller) Hays in Flat Rock, Illinois on October 11, 1934. He attended Lawrenceville High School. Jerry proudly began his service to his nation by enlisting in the United States Navy. He served four years during the Korean War. He then continued his military career in the United States Air Force for eighteen years. After his retirement from the Air Force, Jerry worked for the Indiana State Employment Office for twenty years as a Veteran's Representative. Upon retirement from the State, he drove cars for Memering Autoplex. Jerry also was active in his church, Morris Chapel Methodist Church. He served as the Superintendent, taught Sunday School and was a member of the cemetery board. As the most handsome man in the Navy, he wrote impressive letters to the young nurse that he eventually married. He came home on leave and married Donna Begeman on May 5, 1955.

In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, riding his motorcycle, swimming at the YMCA, and eating breakfast with friends. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #1, Elks Lodge, and Civitan International. Jerry also assisted with community activities, such as transporting children to Shriner's Hospitals. He will be deeply missed.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Gene Hays, Jim Hays, Amanda Crow, and Rella Wampler.

He is survived by his wife, of 69 years, Donna Hays; children Diana (Lee) Marmaduke and Greg (Sherry) Hays; sister Rose (Charlie) Faith; grandchildren Hannah Swordgarden, Ethan Marmaduke, Jennifer Marmaduke, Asah Maddox, Jill Marmaduke ; great-grandchildren Bennie Williams IV, Chante Williams, Maverick Hays, Jozie Blakley, Silas Maddox, Magnus Benson; great-great-grandchildren Rosalie Williams and Maisie Lay; and several nieces and nephews.

Goodwin-Sievers is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Hays. Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Morris Chapel Methodist Church, Oaktown, Indiana. A Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at Morris Chapel Methodist Church beginning promptly at 1:00 pm with burial at Morris Chapel Cemetery immediately following with full military honors.

Memorial donations can be made to any charity of your choice in honor of Jerry Hays.