Winifred Hays, 80, of Salem, passed away on March 6th, 2026, at Odin Healthcare Center with her family by her side. She was born on April 9th, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, to Kurb and Rose (Harris) Herrington.
She is survived by her sons: Sherman (Cheryl Mitchell) Sills and Michael Sills; many wonderful grandchildren; sister: Delores Herrington; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents: Kurb and Rose Herrington; two husbands: Sherman Sills and George Hays; three sons: Jacob Sills, Scott Sills, and Thomas Sills; brothers: Herbie Herrington, Virgil Herrington, Georgie Herrington, and Dwight Herrington; nieces: Penny Crow and Brenda Sills; and the couple that raised her from an early age: Hershal and Ceilia Monical.
Winifred enjoyed planting flowers and plants in her yard. She loved animals, especially her pet birds. She kept her house meticulously organized. She enjoyed cooking for her family, including making her own recipes. She would talk almost daily with her sister Delores, whom Winifred affectionately called “half pint”. Her greatest joy came from her children and grandchildren. She will be missed dearly by those who knew her.
Cremation rites will be accorded, per her wishes. A private burial will be held at a future date. Online condolences may be left by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Sutherland-Rankin Facebook page.
