Chandler, AZ - Jackie "Jack" Dale Hays, 84, passed away peacefully in his home in Chandler, Arizona on January 4, 2023. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life. Despite his battle with medical issues, Jack came out a hero.

He was born in Kansas City, Missouri on September 29, 1938 and was adopted by his parents, D.B. and Bula Hays. He spent his childhood in Salem, Illinois and graduated from high school in 1956. Throughout his high school years, he participated in sports and music. He started studies at the University of Illinois and then served in the Air Force from 1958 through 1964. Jack was a graduate of the Air Force Academy. After his service, Jack was a commercial pilot for Standard Airways, Northwest Airlines, and Alaska International Air.

Jack is survived by his lifelong friend and wife, Ruthanne, and her daughters Contance and Jennifer, Jack's children Jackie and Royce, and his 14 grand-children and 5 great grand-children.