John Martin Hays

John (Martin) Hays was born to John Henry Hays and Thelma Louise Hays on August 17, 1941 in Everton, Missouri.

He went to be with the Lord on September 21, 2015, at the age of 74. Martin parted this life at his home, doing what he loved. He was surrounded by family and friends.

Martin lived in Everton, Missouri, all his life. He attended the Everton School from 1st grade to graduation.

John Martin married his wife Greta (Davis) Hays on April 11, 1964. They had two wonderful children, Regina Hays (Hurd) and John Michael Hays.

Martin and Greta made their life on the family farm where they lived for 38 years. He was a lifelong member of the Everton Presbyterian Church where he attended with many family and friends.

Martin retired in April of 2001 from S.M.S.U where he worked for 30 years. Martin gave his time to the Everton School as the time keeper and time clock runner for the basketball games from 1980 - 1999. He also gave his time to the Everton Rural Fire Department as a volunteer fireman for 30 years.

Martin loved to farm and catfish with his children and grandchildren, which he did many, many times. Martin never passed up the chance to catch the big one.

He was preceded in death by his parents John Henry Hays and Thelma Louise Hays; one nephew, Larry Allen Johnson; and one brother-in-law, Larry Johnson.

Martin is survived by his wife Greta, of the home; one saughter, Regina Hurd and son-in-law, Fabian Hurd; one son, John Michael Hays and his fianc, Jolene Bendon; four grandchildren: Zach Hurd and wife, Sarah Hurd, Springfield; Nich Hurd and girlfriend, Danielle Reese; Madison Hays and Garrett Bendon; and one sister, Beverly Johnson; all of Everton.

He will be loved and greatly missed by many family and friends.

Funeral services, under direction of Birch Funeral Home, Ash Grove, were held on Saturday, September 26, 2015.