Darrel Floyd Hays, 81, of Salem, Illinois passed away peacefully at 9:50 pm, Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at the Odin Health Care and Rehab in Odin, Illinois.
Darrel was born on February 28, 1942, in Dix, Illinois, the son of George and Carrie (Self) Hays. He married Deborah Poppe on September 25, 2009, in Salem, Illinois and they shared 14 years of marriage.
Darrel spent a significant part of his life working diligently in various jobs. He drove trucks, worked for Gerard Metal Building, and spent time at Colman Farm Supply. Regardless of the job, Darrel was known for his strong work ethic, tenacity, and commitment to providing for his family.
Despite his demanding work schedule, Darrel always found time to pursue his passions. He loved to cook, often creating meals that brought family and friends together. A man of adventure, Darrel was an avid traveler. He had a particular fondness for the West, where he found inspiration in its vast landscapes and vibrant cultures. His love for nature was evident in his pastime of eagle watching, a hobby that brought him much joy and peace. Darrel was a member of the Emmanuel Baptist Church in Salem.
Darrel was a sports enthusiast, with a special love for NASCAR and wrestling. His love for animals and children was well-known, and he cherished his four fur babies: GiGi, Bella, Cody, and Barney.
Darrel is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Hays of Salem; stepchildren: Charles Eagan of Indiana, Dale Eagan of Central City, Danny Eagan of Seattle, Washington, and Donna Hammond of Waynewood, Oklahoma; his siblings, Jim Hays of Salem, and Dorothy Bowden of Arkansas. He held a special place in his heart for his niece, Rita Hays of Fairfield, along with several other nieces and nephews.
Darrel was preceded in death by his parents; past spouses: Edna Veal and Joanna Eagan-Hays; 3 brothers: Bill Hays, Lester Hays, and Carrol Hays; and sister: Fredia Nichols.
A memory shared by Deborah about Darrel’s final day on earth was, “he was laying in the bed and looking out the window of his room and tried to get out of bed and he was saying he was going home.”
Celebration of Life services for Darrel will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 28, 2023, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Kinmundy with Doug Williams officiating. Burial will follow at the Summit Prairie Cemetery in rural Salem. A visitation will be held on Saturday at the funeral home where friends may call from 12:00 to 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Darrel’s memory to the Emmanuel Baptist Church. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory of Darrel, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.
