Friday, July 23, 2021

David Hays


(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

David Wayne Hays passed away Thursday, July 15, 2021, at his home in Joplin, MO.

David was born October 25, 1962, in Camden, Arkansas, to Maurice and Suzanna Hays. He grew up in Camden, AR with his two brothers, Randy and Scott, and sister, Risa.

David graduated from Camden High School in 1979. While in high school David began working for Taco Tico and continued with the company during his undergraduate studies at Southern Arkansas University Tech in Camden, AR. 








Working for the Tico franchise, David relocated to Texarkana, Arkansas, where he ran the highest volume Tico franchise in the nation (by the age of 25), transitioning from regional manager to part franchise owner.

Through the restaurant industry, David later reconnected with a restaurant and bar owner whom he'd met through the Tico franchises, offering him an opportunity to relocate to Pittsburg, Kansas and manage a new restaurant he was opening, Bebops Diner. David managed Bebops from 1993-1995. 

And when his friend and business associate opened another restaurant in Pittsburg, David was given yet another opportunity and challenge, being the General Manager of Cafe Del Rio in 1995, then General Manager of Del Rio Bordertown Cafe when it was opened in Joplin, MO in 2002. 

***
You can support continued free obituaries on this site by using the button below or by sending your contribution for Inside Joplin Obituaries to Randy Turner, 2306 E. 8th, Apt. A, Joplin, MO 64801. Thank you for your support.

 
***

From 2005-2006 David was the District Manager of all three Del Rio restaurant locations between Joplin and Pittsburg. David and a business partner, after working together since 1996, purchased Rio Enterprises, LLC., in 2007-present.

David was a man of humble beginnings and product of tireless dedication and determination. He believed that hard work pays off and he was known for helping whenever, wherever and whomever he could. David was a fast friend to all he encountered. He had an easygoing spirit and natural southern charm endeared by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

David enjoyed spending time with his siblings, nephews, their families, his friends and his Best friend of fourteen years, Bear (his chocolate lab). He was always delighted to host his family for holidays and gatherings and was a fantastic cook! David especially loved entertaining his young great nieces and nephew. His time spent with his family was held very dear to him and he was always excited to share the details of their visits. He also enjoyed spending time with one of his closest friends whom he'd known since he'd lived in Texarkana. For nearly forty years he and she had talked almost daily, planning occasional visits and holiday dinners together.

David loved fishing. He developed a passion for the pastime as a young boy, learning to bass fish with his father when he was just three years old. His love for the sport was not often enjoyed enough, but he did try to commit to an annual trip each spring, loading up the boat and cooler with one of his best friends, bass fishing at Lake Fork and Toledo Bend in Texas. David always looked forward to this trip. He'd come back with a sunburn, unshaven face and pictures of their "catch of the day".

David was a friend to all and will be missed by many. He had friends, family and friends that were like family. His presence alone was a comfort and his guidance was a gift to all who worked with him over the years.

David was preceded in death by his parents Maurice and Suzanna Hays of Camden, AR; brother, Scott Hays, of Colorado Springs, CO; grandparents, Hayden and Pearl Hays of Yellville, AR; grandparents, Claude & Eulla Dean Graves of El Dorado, AR.; loyal companion and best friend, Bear, Joplin, MO.

David is survived by his brother, Randy Hays of Broken Arrow, OK; sister, Risa Hays East of Broken Arrow, OK; nephew, Mike East, and wife, Carla of Broken Arrow, OK; nephew, Josh East, and wife, Abby of Cowetta, OK; nephew, Tyler of Colorado Springs, CO; great nieces, Hayden and Henley East of Broken Arrow, OK; great niece, Addison East of Cowetta, OK; and great nephew, Jaxon East of Cowetta, OK.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Monday, July 26, 2021, at the Mason-Woodard Chapel. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation prior to the service on Monday beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory,

No comments:

Post a Comment