Wayne Hays, Jr.

E. Wayne Hays, Jr, 68, passed away at Baylor Medical Center in Dallas long after and courageous battle with cancer. He was born April 5, 1946 in Avalon, Texas and grew up in the farming communities of Rankin, Bardwell and Avalon. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee Ellon Sparks Hays and E. Wayne Hays, Sr. He graduated from Avalon High School in 1964, and in 1966, graduated from Navarro College in Corsicana with an Associate Degree. He continued his education at The University of Texas at Arlington where he studied civil engineering, and in December 1967 joined the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve where he served from 1967 until 1973. On June 15, 1968 he married Ellen Connally of Waxahachie. Wayne and Ellen were married for 46 years. With a dry sense of humor, he was a reserved and steady anchor that balanced her expressive personality which benefited their relationship, especially during his many health challenges. In March 1970 he joined the consulting Civil Engineering Firm Shimek, Roming, Jacobs and Finklea which in later years became Birkhoff, Hendricks and Carter. He retired in December 2011 after 41 years working with colleagues he both respected and enjoyed. During his tenure, Wayne was involved in engineering projects such as municipal transportation, storm drainage, waste water systems and water resources for a majority of municipalities in North Central Texas. Wayne had varied interests. He enjoyed reading books based on historical events, particularly the Civil War, and treasured Presidential biographical books and any book written by his favorite author, Stephen Ambrose. He was an avid bass fisherman and a member of the Ellis County Bass Club for many years. He is Past Master of Nash Lodge #638 and served as Chapter Secretary for 20 years. He and Ellen traveled extensively and especially enjoyed Santa Fe, New Mexico. They loved the serenity, colorful fall leaves and the northern New Mexico cuisine at their favorite restaurants. Survived by his wife Ellen, sister Wanda Hays, nephews Kendal and Randal Spears, niece Lisa Wood and many special cousins. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held Wednesday, January 7 at 2 p.m. at the Central Presbyterian Church, 402 N. College in Waxahachie, TX. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made to Central Presbyterian Church or a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Wayne Boze Funeral Home, 1826 W. Hwy 287 Business, Waxahachie, 972-923-2700.