John Hays

John Hays of Clovis, New Mexico died December 20, 2021 at his home.

Visitation will be from 2:00p.m. - 6:00p.m. Monday, December 27th at Steed Todd Funeral Chapel.

Private family graveside services will be held for John with Rev. Jon Forrest officiating.

A memorial service will be held at a later date to include all friends and family.

John was born February 7, 1934 in Carlisle, PA, the son of John Hays and Ruby (Jones) Hays.

He attended Carson Long Military Institute and attained the rank of Battalion Commander, graduating in 1952.

In 1955, he moved from Pennsylvania to Clovis where he met and married Diane Curry and they became the parents of Marc and Dinah Hays.

He worked at the Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF) from 1955-2008, retiring as a conductor.

Throughout his life, John demonstrated leadership skills and a desire to serve the public. He was a lobbyist for The United Transportation Union Local 1176 in Santa Fe. He was elected to the New Mexico State Legislature, serving from 1970-1974. John spent 2 years in the Army and many years in the Army National Guard. He also served as a Deacon in his church for several years.

In 1992, John married Sandra Emmons Peters, and became the loving stepdad of her 5 grown children.

John was preceded in death by his son, Marc Hays, his daughter, Dinah Hays, and a nephew Scott Hays.

He is survived by his Wife, Sandra Hays of the home, Brother Bill Hays (Rossanna), Nephew Gregory Hays (Despina), and great-nieces Melina and Sophia, step-children Polly Dendy, Penny Huerta (Joseph), Patty Neff,  Robert Peters (Maria), and Paige Wheeler(Mike), grandchildren Kelsey, Haley, Tyler, Danae, Melissa, Nathan, Jasmine, D'Ziana, Stephanie, Stewart, Tasha, Holly, Zeke, Cade, Boone, Manuel, Ruben, and Marco. John is also survived by 20 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren, and many good friends.