Jo Anne Johnston - Hays

Jo Anne Johnston Hays was called home August 3, 2017. She died peacefully in her home. Born March 7, 1932, she graduated from Tyler High School and married the love of her life, Bill Hays, in 1951. We rejoice that she has been reunited with her loving husband. Jo Anne lived life to the fullest, meeting every day with a smile. Jo Anne, native Tylerite, was born March 7, 1932, to Marion and Floyd Johnston. Jo Anne was a woman of faith, being a long time member of Green Acres Baptist church and Forerunners Sunday school class. She cherished her friendships, sharing special times with her Mahjong and bridge group. The infamous Hays Lake House was the long-time center of her family gatherings and celebrations. Her extended family would gather for holidays, birthdays, weddings, and sometimes just the weekend, playing cards and games around the dining room table, and reliving stories of past generations. The house was full of love and laughter. That was the gift she gave to those around her. Jo Anne and Bill raised their four children, Debby, Dee Dee, Donna, and Bill, Jr. in Tyler. She took pride in her home and her family and her friends. She loved to travel with her family and friends, her most memorable trip being to the Holy Land. Mammaw, as she was known to her nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, treasured every moment she spent with them. Jo Anne is survived by her children, Debby Hays Compel, Dee Dee Hays Fergason (Tim), Donna Hays Meyer (Dane), and Bill Hays, Jr. (Judy); grandchildren, Christy Compel Schaeffer (Andrew), Scott Compel, Kelly Belt, Brad Meyer (Janice), Randy Meyer (Laney), and Brooke Meyer, Rachel Hays Trimble (Austen), Melissa Hays, Kyle Hays; five great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Marty Johnston; and nieces and nephews. Pall bearers are Steve Hays, Brian Hays, Brad Meyer, Scott Compel, Kyle Hays, Austen Trimble, and Ryan Cheatham. Services for Jo Anne will be held Sunday, August 6, 2017, at 2:00 pm at Stewart Family Funeral Home, 7525 Old Jacksonville Hwy with Dr. David O. Dykes officiating. Visitation will be Saturday, August 5, 2017, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm also at Stewart Family Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested you make a donation to Green Acres Baptist Church Foundation, 1607 Troup Hwy., Tyler, TX 75701 or a charity of your choice.

Jo Anne Johnston - Hays

March 7, 1932 - August 3, 2017