Michael Hays

(From Parker Mortuary)

Michael Raymond Hays, age 73, Joplin, Missouri, passed away on June 5, 2023 at Freeman Hospital.

Michael was born on July 21, 1949 in Joplin, Missouri to the late James and Vivienne Hays.

He grew up in Joplin and worked for the family business at Joplin Furniture Company. He attended school at the New Mexico Military Academy and Missouri Southern State College. He proudly served in the Army where he was a military police officer in Germany. But, he was the most proud of the time he served at the Joplin Fire Department as a firefighter. 

He had a great taste for wines, especially German wines, from his time spent there while he was in the Army. Michael had many interests such as playing cards and board games, fishing, golfing, music, and reading.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife, Tana Hays; second wife, Robin Hays; sisters, Missy Brill, Cindy Sours, and Deborah Harsh.

He is survived by his children; Andrea Hilgenberg (Justin) of Joplin, Jonathan Hays (Denise); brothers; Bill Hays (Annette) of Pine Ridge, Arkansas, Bob Hays (Connie) of Carl Junction; grandchildren; Henry and Atticus Hilgenberg, several cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Memorial services are planned for Friday, June 9, 2023 at 11:30 a.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery in Webb City, Missouri with full military honors. The family requests a time of visitation prior to the service, starting at 10:00 a.m. at Parker Mortuary.