Stella Mae Hays

Stella Mae Hays, age 83, passed away on February 20, 2016 in Hanford, California, at home and surrounded by her loving family. Stella was born Stella Mae Fires on October 2, 1932 in Sulphur, Oklahoma to Robert and Lois Fires (née Eldred). She was the first of eight children and the first of six daughters.

Stella met the love of her life, Vernon Jack (“VJ”) Hays while chopping cotton on VJ’s family farm in Loraine, Texas. They married on New Year’s Eve in 1949 when she was 17 and he was 18 years old. They were happily married for more than 60 years and raised 5 beloved children together: Nellie Parks, Trena Gunter, Merlin Hays, Leta Burriss, and Randy Hays.

Stella worked alongside her husband, a cotton gin manager, as his office manager for many years. The couple enjoyed camping, motorcycle riding and family gatherings. They also went on many traveling adventures together.

Stella is predeceased by her husband VJ and her daughter Leta. She is also predeceased by 3 sisters and 1 brother.

Stella is survived by 4 children, 13 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by 3 siblings, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. We will all miss her dearly.

Stella was a devout believer and attended Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church in Hanford for many years. Her Lord and Savior welcomes her into His loving embrace.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 1, 2016 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. with a Funeral Service taking place on Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. all at People’s Funeral Chapel; 501 N. Douty Street, Hanford, CA 93230 with Burial immediately following at Hanford Cemetery; 10500 S. 10th Avenue, Hanford, CA 93230.

Family and Friends may visit www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com to send flowers and condolences to the family.