David R Hays

David R. “Gabby” Hays

October 17, 1951 – February 6, 2021

Dave died peacefully at his home on Saturday surrounded by most of his family.  

Dave was born in Big Rapids, Michigan on October 17, 1951, the first son of Kenneth W. and Katherine F. (Barth) Hays.  

He moved to Youngstown, Ohio in 1970 when he was hired into Fisher Body Lordstown Fabrication Plant, where he worked until he retired in 1993. He was a faithful member of UAW 1714. David, who was lovingly known as Gabby, was a Mason with Poland Masonic Lodge #82, member of the AutMori Grotto where he served as Gabby the clown for 20 years.   He was an avid fisherman, hunter, craftsman, mechanic, and anything you could fix with your handsman.

In 1971 David met Sue, who he knew from the first day they met that he was going to marry her; and on September 5, 1974 that became true.  They built their lives in Youngstown, Ohio and retired to Cape Coral, Florida in 2004.

David, Dad, Grandpa, Gabby, Uncle Gab was loved by so many. He was an amazing husband, father, brother, and friend and will be missed by anyone whom he has ever met.  

David is survived by his loving wife, Susan D. Holdford of North Fort Myers, Florida; a son, Terry (Julie) Hays of Burton, Michigan; 2 daughters, Amy (Eric) Earley of Cape Coral, Florida and Amanda Hays of Youngstown, Ohio; 2 sisters, Nancy (Robert) Woitkowski of North Fort Myers, Florida and Diane (Chuck) Franklin of Big Rapids, Michigan; 1 brother, Kenneth (Mary Jane) Hays of Rockford, Michigan; a brother in love, Bill (Millie) Holdford of Youngstown, Ohio; 5 grandchildren, Joey, Abby, Kyle, Paige and Mason; and multiple nephews and nieces.

He is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and his eldest daughter, Toni R. Osbourn.  

David will be remembered most for his love for his family, his dog blue, his trike, his friends, his big fish stories, and his innate ability to make a meal out of anything! He would give you the shirt off his back and pick you up if you needed a ride at any time of the day or night.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.  

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