Ben Edward Hays USAF Captain Ret

Ben Edward Hays passed away on July 23, 2011 at his home in San Antonio, Texas, surrounded by the ones he loved. Ben was born in San Antonio on January 17, 1925 to Angeline Maria Guerra and Eduardo C. Herrera.

Ben was a decorated World War II veteran, having received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart during his wartime service. Upon his retirement from the United States Air Force in 1963, Ben joined the Department of Defense police force at Kelly AFB in San Antonio, Texas, where he served for twenty-two years.

Ben's life exemplified the highest ideals of duty, honor and, most importantly, family. Leading by example, he sought to instill those attributes in his children. He enthusiastically supported his children in all their endeavors and was proud of each of their accomplishments. He also loved his grandchildren beyond measure.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife of 56 years, Clarece Fehrenbach Hays.

He is survived by his sister, Margaret G. Garcia; daughters, Carla F. Grube and husband Richard of Smithville, Texas, and Benita H. Smith and husband Leon of San Antonio; son, Karl E. Hays of Buda, Texas; and grandchildren, Shannon M. Britain and Peggy M. Smith of San Antonio and Conner E. Hays of Buda. Ben also left behind numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 31st from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Porter Loring North.

SERVICE

MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2011

11:00 A.M.

COVENANT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

211 ROLETO DRIVE

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ben's name to the Wounded Warrior Project, Attn: Donor Services, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256 or to Covenant Presbyterian Church in San Antonio, where he was a faithful member for many years.