Larry Wayne Hays

Larry Wayne Hays, 75, of Ballinger, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 17, 2022, in San Angelo.

He was born on Tuesday, December 24, 1946, to William Blair and Dorothy Ruth (Smith) Hays in Ballinger, Texas.  Larry honorably served his country in the United States Army National Guard until his honorable discharge in 1972.  On February 5, 1972, he married the love of his life, Anita Lucille “Lucy” Patton in Blackwell, Texas. Together they shared forty-four beautiful years before her passing on August 14, 2016.  They raised two daughters, Amy and Carol, supporting all their efforts with enthusiasm and delight.

In his younger years, Larry was active in Boy Scouts, FFA, Science Club, Latin Club, and Bearcat Band as a tuba player, earning various awards and officer positions over the years.  He was active in youth events at First United Methodist Church and remained an active member of the church community where he served as an usher for many years later in life and helped with Lord’s Acre every year.  He became a longtime member of Ballinger Breakfast Lion’s Club and volunteered with Meals on Wheels.  He was a thoughtful friend and watched over the events of Ballinger for as long as he was able.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents William and Dorothy Hays, his wife Lucy Hays, and his mother and father-in-law Raymond E. and Vee Patton.

He is survived by his daughters Amy Baird and husband Mike of Wall, Texas, and Carol Gully and husband Brent of St. Lawrence, Texas.  Larry is also survived by his grandchildren, whom he loved and adored: Abigail, Emily, Allison, Meredith, Madelyn Baird, and Kelsey and Sydnee Gully.  He is survived by his sister Cynthia Jones and husband Jerry of Bossier City, Louisiana, and his brother-in-law Don Patton and wife Carol of College Station, Texas.

A visitation for Larry will be held before his service on Monday, March 21, 2022, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at the First United Methodist Church in Ballinger, Texas.  His funeral service will follow at 10:00 am with Tag Green officiating.  Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Ballinger, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The First United Methodist Church or Meals on Wheels in Larry’s honor.