DARRELL HENRY "HANK" HAYS, JR., 66, of Alton, KS died on October 29, 2019 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, KS.

Hank was born on September 5, 1953 in Osborne, KS, the son of Darrell H., Sr., & Shirley (Campbell) Hays. He grew up in the rural Natoma, KS area and graduated from Natoma High School in 1971. Hank worked for area farmers during high school and was a member of Belleview 4-H Club and FFA. For a brief time after high school, he worked as a custom cutter and at a gas station only to return to his Dad's farming operation north of Natoma. Hank was a 4th generation farmer. He raised cattle, sheep, donkeys, pigeons, geese, and a host of other animals through the years.

After suffering a brain tumor and the loss of his Dad, he slowed his farm operation down to just livestock and recreational farming. He would spend his time watching his favorite show, FOX News or sports and caring for his animals. He would rescue dogs that were elderly, ill, or homeless. His loving care gave them all more time on earth such as Baby & Stroker, his dachshunds who he took in which were given 6 months to live. They lasted 3 additional years. He was given 2 pitbull puppies which he promptly named Baby George & George. They became his full time companions. With the passing of Baby George, Hank & George became inseparable until July, 2018 when he had to leave their home due to his failing health, Hank moved to Wellington Health & Rehab in Wellington, KS and later Westview Manor of Derby, KS where he lived until he passed away.

Hank is survived by a brother, Terry Hays, Natoma; sisters, Linda (Phill) Martin, Great Bend; Marsha (David) Erickson, Wellington; and Stephanie(David Austin) Massier, Palco. He has 6 nieces and 4 nephews and several great nieces & nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Sheri, and his beloved companions, Baby George & George.

A celebration of Darrell's life will be on Monday, November 4th at 11:00 am at the United Methodist Church in Natoma, Kansas.  Visitation & viewing is from 9:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. the day of service at the church.  Burial will follow at the Natoma Cemetery.  Pohlman, Varner & Peeler Mortuary of  Russell and Natoma, Kansas are in charge of the services

Memorials will be with K9 Karma Animal Advocates, an animal rescue non-profit. Donations in memory of Hank may be sent either on their website, k9karmarescue.org or mail to: K9 Karma, 809 Harding St., Wichita, KS 67208