Mary Ellen (Smith) Hays

Mary Ellen (Smith) Hays

Aug. 22, 1932 – Sept. 7, 2020

Mary Ellen Hays, 88, of Comanche passed away at Medical City Denton Hospital on Monday, Sept. 7, 2020 with her son and daughter-in-law by her side.

Mary was born on Aug. 22, 1932 in Comanche, the daughter of Alva Pauline and Leonard Smith. She graduated from Comanche High School. On June 9, 1956 she married the love of her life Carl “Cotton” L. Hays. Mary was a dedicated mother and was devoted to public education in support of her husband. She worked as a school secretary at Liberty Elementary School until retiring to become a full time “Mema”. She enjoyed reading, including her Bible, gardening and attending any activities related to her granddaughters. Her son was the light of her life and when he married Karen she became her daughter. She also enjoyed playing dominoes and card games and was very competitive. She was a God loving woman, best wife, mother and Mema ever.

Those left to honor her memory are her son Ronald (Ron) and wife Karen Hays of Corinth, Texas; grandchildren, Sarah and husband Darrion Randle, Emily and husband Christopher Jensen, her brother Jim Smith, sister’s Billie Akers, Shirley Hughes and husband Charlie, brother Gary Smith, and a very special nephew/son Scott Smith and his wife Mindy.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of 64 years Carl “Cotton” Hays.

Graveside services will be limited to immediate family only due to the current circumstances. I know they both would love to have everyone join in the celebration but to protect our family and all others please understand our decision. There will be a public viewing at Comanche Funeral Home on Friday, Sept. 11 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Please make sure to follow social distancing protocols and wear a mask to protect you, your loved ones and everyone else. Thanks.

Online condolences may be sent to comanchefh@pldi.net