Ray Hays

Life-long Vinita area resident, Ray Irvin Hays, 84, passed away at his home on March 10, 2022. He was born March 2, 1938, in Vinita to Rutherford Hays and Hazel (Smith) Hays. Ray was a graduate of Bluejacket High School. He enlisted in the United States Army and served his country until his discharge in May of 1959. Ray worked as a over the road trucker for many years before retiring. He enjoyed fishing and doing mechanical work. Ray raised beautiful and bountiful gardens and shared his vegetables with friends and family. He cared for the wild animals around the farm. Squirrels, deer, and birds always had something to eat around the farm. Ray enjoyed helping family with anything they needed. He especially enjoyed helping         his brother Lee Roy get his truck and trailer ready for an over the road trip. Ray was a caring family man that will be missed by all who knew him.

Preceding Ray Hays in death are his parents, Rutherford, and Hazel Hays; sisters, Ruby Beasley, Laura Ann Heltzel, and brothers Robert and John Hays. Survivors include, a daughter Debbie, from Barnsdall, Oklahoma; siblings, Almeta Robertson, and husband Jerry, of Bernice, Oklahoma, Ima Jean Halstead, of Bernice, Erma Lee Raven of Bernice, Lee Roy Hays, and wife Ethel, of Vinita; many other relatives and a host of friends.

A visitation will be held from 1pm to 2pm, Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at Luginbuel Funeral Home of Vinita with the Celebration of Life Service to follow at 2p.m., in the Luginbuel Chapel. Burial will follow at Pheasant Hill Cemetery Northwest of Vinita. Online condolences may be left at www.honoringmemories.com or see our Facebook page.