1956-2023
A Celebration of Life Service for Paul Edward Hays will be held 7:00pm, Tuesday, August 22, 2023 in the Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Michael Lepien officiating. Visitation will be from 4pm-7pm Tuesday evening. Services are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory.
“That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Those words from Neil Armstrong were spoken on Paul’s 13th birthday. His father worked in Houston, on the Apollo program. Intrigue with space exploration was a constant theme throughout Paul’s life. He loved to share the history and knowledge with both his children and grandchildren.
Paul was born on July 20, 1956 in Waco, Texas. His loving parents Paul Edward Hays, Sr. and Betty Jane nee Barton raised their son in a Christian home. Paul always had a love of life and curiosity of science. Most people would say he was a geek. Paul thought seriously about becoming a minister. Ultimately, he decided to pursue a science-based career and became a metallurgist. This path eventually led to Enid.
He and his loving wife, Cheryl, raised two children, Matthew, and Norman Daniel in a Christian home. Paul’s fascination with the new personal computer age sparked an interest in Matthew early on which is still prevalent today. Paul was involved with the Boy Scouts of America in his own youth. Paul continued to serve in a leadership role while Norman Daniel participated in his youth. The relationships formed during these times strengthened Paul, Matthew, and Norman Daniel. Paul’s curiosity and hands-on approach is a legacy that is now shaping the next generation. Paul had the heart of a servant and enjoyed helping others.
His wife and children have survived him, along with Matthew’s wife, Barbara and three children: Eve, John, and Faith. Norman and his wife Sarah have two children: Emmett and Dean Paul. Paul is also survived by his younger brother, Greg. His wife Beth, and their children and grandchildren.
Honorary pallbearers: John Blakley, Jim Coombes, Bill Godding, Ted Hanson, Greg Hays, Matthew Hays, Norman Daniel Hays, Bobby Kenemore, Rick Little. Deb Reinhart, and Karen Van Hyning Tucker.
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