Vera Jane Wiggans Hays, age 80, formerly of Fort Scott, died Wednesday evening, August 22, 2018, at Greystone Assisted Living in Iola, Kansas.
Vera was born August 9, 1938, to Marjorie and Pascal Wiggans in rural Bronson. She attended Bronson schools, played basketball and was drum majorette.
Vera married Bernard “Bun” Hays in 1956 in Miami, Oklahoma. Together, they raised four children that were the love of her life.
Vera worked for Braemor and Key Industries for more than 40 years and was a friend to all she met. She always loved animals, especially dogs. Vera was an accomplished seamstress, quilter and crocheted, often creating clothes for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Vera loved music ranging from Elvis to traditional western to her grandson’s alt-rock band. She enjoyed the Fort Scott Opry and other local music performances. She was a regular at the Greystone Assisted Living cultural events singing along with guest musicians.
Vera is pre-deceased by her parents, husband Bun and many loved dogs. She is survived by her beloved Boston Terrier Raven, sister Wanda Lou Woodward of Manhattan, Kansas, sons Michael “Mick” (Janet) of Iola, Martin of El Dorado, daughters Joni (Blane) Peters of Stillwater, Oklahoma, and Lori of Garden City. Grandchildren Blake (Andis) Hill, Brittany (Jake) Keltner, Reagan Hill, Emily (Dallas) Funk, Thomas Hays, James Hays and step-grandchildren Chris (Keri) Johnson and Aaron (Ashley) St. Clair also survive. Vera is also survived by great-grandchildren Parker, Adryannah, Piper, Ellie, Carsen, Samson and Paysly.
Pastor Lloyd Houk will conduct funeral services at 12:30 PM Monday, August 27th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel, Fort Scott. Burial will follow in the U. S. National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Brain Injury Association of Kansas and Greater Kansas City, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, Lower Level Kansas City, MO 64105 or in care of Cheney Witt Chapel, P.O. Box 347, 201 S. Main, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.