Funeral services for Harold Jessie Hays Jr., a proud veteran of the United States Army, will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at Hanceville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow the service at Mt. Zion Nazarene Cemetery in Blount County. Reverend Paul Rivers will be officiating services. Visitation for the public will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, June 17, 2024, at Hanceville Funeral Home.
Jessie was born on December 20, 1950, in Birmingham, Alabama and passed away at the age of 73 on June 13, 2024, in Birmingham, Alabama. His life was a testament to his unwavering love for his country, his deep faith in God, and his cherished family.
Jessie served his nation with honor and distinction, embodying the true spirit of patriotism. His dedication to his country was matched only by his devotion to his faith. He believed wholeheartedly that “God is good all the time… all the time God is good,” a mantra he lived by and instilled in those around him.
He was a loving and devoted family man, teaching his children the values of respect, integrity, and kindness. He found immense joy in laughter and loved playing jokes on friends and family. His infectious sense of humor and light-hearted spirit made him a joy to be around.
Spending time with his classmates of Gardendale High School Class of 1969, brought him great happiness, and he cherished these moments of camaraderie and friendship. Most of that time was spent at Jack’s Restaurant over several cups of coffee. In his final days, Jesse continued to praise the Lord and sing with unwavering faith, a true testament to his deep connection with God. He was renowned for his exceptional bass singing voice, a talent that brought joy to many.
Jessie leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and laughter. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Survivors include his wife of almost 47 years, Elouise Hays; children, Tina Callan (Jon), James Hays (Kelli), and Heather Payne; grandchildren, Payton Allred (Shelby), Hannah Allred, Mason Allred, Kayla Ray (Aaron), Lacey Williams (Noah), Hayley Isbell, Anaken Hays, Olivia Payne, Jett Payne (Jeremy Payne-Father), and Talan Jenkins; great grandchild, Reese Allred; siblings, Danny Hays (Ann), Jerry Hays, Jerome Mikell (Deborah), Randy B. Hays (Peri), and Chris Hays (Tracey); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, extended family members; children-in-love, Stephanie Jenkins, Jeremy Jenkins and Ronnie Allred; and his Hopewell Church of God family.
Those who preceded him in death were his parents, Harold Jessie Hays Sr. and Virginia Christine Newton-Hays; sister-in-law, Melissa Hays; and brother, Tommy Hays.
His memory will forever be in our hearts, and his faith and love will continue to inspire us all.
