James Kearns Hays

James (Jim) Kearns Hays 65 lost his heroic fight against cancer on January 26, 2016. His final days were spent at home surrounded by family and friends. A celebration of his life will be held on Monday February 1st at 1pm at The Family Life Church in Gillette Wyoming. Full military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post 42 Honor Guard. Denver Broncos or other sports related attire has been requested by the family for the services. A luncheon will be served immediately after the celebration followed by an even bigger celebration at Jakes Tavern. Jim was born in Gillette Wyoming on August 7, 1950 to parents Robert Hays and Betty Hays (Wells). He attended and graduated Campbell County High School In 1968. He served in the United States Air Force from 1971 to 1975. In 1978 He met and married Michelle Coltrane and in 1979 they welcomed daughter Talayna into their lives; the two later divorced. He then met the love of his life Barbi Lund and after a long courtship the two were married and spent many happy years together. Jim became the proud owner of Jakes Tavern in 1994. He and Barbi built and ran a thriving business where he was loved as an employer and friend. Jim loved all things sports but at the top of the list was his beloved Denver Broncos. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and traveled whenever he could. Jim was an active member of the community, always raising money and planning events at Jakes for those in need. He was a well loved and respected man in our community and will be missed by many. Jim is survived by his wife Barbi Hays, children Talayna Hays, Jane (Faron) Patton, and Kevin(Dawn) Hitt , 7 grandchildren , siblings: Patsy (Doug) Compton, Mary Hughes, , Bobby (Darla) Hays, Christy (Bob) Nelson, Ron (Mary Anne) Hays, Greg (Kathy) Hays, and Wendy (Dylan) Manry and several other extended family members.Jim was preceded in death by his mother Betty Wells, father Bob Hays, brother Joe Hays, and several other relatives.A memorial has been established in Jim's name and will be donated to Wyoming Cares. Memorials and Condolences may be sent in his name to the family in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel, 210 West Fifth Street Gillette Wyoming. Condolences may also be sent via internet at www.gillettememorialchapel.comFuneral Home:Gillette Memorial Chapel210 West Fifth Street Gillette, WYUS 82716