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Ernie Hays Obituary
The St. Louis native, who spent 40 seasons as the baseball team's organist, died Wednesday night at age 77. A cause of death was not disclosed.
Cardinals chairman Bill DeWitt Jr. called Hays "one of the premier sports organists in the country and a valued member of the Cardinals family."
A classically trained pianist, Hays also worked as organist for the St. Louis Blues hockey team, college sports teams and for professional soccer in St. Louis.
But he was best known for his work at both the old Busch Stadium and the new one, which opened in 2006. In addition to thousands of regular season games, his music was played at five World Series.
He began his sports music career when the Cardinals installed an organ in 1971. His version of "Here Comes The King," a Budweiser beer advertising jingle, soon became a staple at every game. He also was among the first organists to play individualized "walk up" songs as players went to bat, and introduction music for relief pitchers.
Hays retired from the Cardinals in 2010. By then, pre-recorded pop music and video had replaced much of Hays' performance.
Hays was born in St. Louis and began playing piano at age 7, the Cardinals said in a news release. His family later moved to Houston, Mo., where he graduated from high school. He majored in music at Drury College and Southwestern Missouri State University in Springfield (now Missouri State University).
He served in the Navy for four years before returning to St. Louis and earning an engineering degree from Washington University. He worked for many years as an engineering supervisor for the Bell Telephone System, much of that time while he was performing at sporting events at night.
Funeral arrangements were not immediately announced.
JIM SALTER, Associated Press
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
59 Entries
May 26, 2019
Ernie was the greatest and a good man! He will be missed.
Bernie Frazier
Maria Wagner
May 26, 2019
Thank you for your contribution to the games Mr. Hays. Fly high sir.
Eric and Lusa Ammerman
May 25, 2019
As lifetime Cardinals fans, we enjoyed Ernie's wonderful organ over the years at both Busch Stadiums 2 and 3. He has been missed since his retirement and now due to his death. RIP Ernie Hays!
Carol Gibson
May 25, 2019
As a life long Cardinal fan, I loved that you played organ & not can music! I especially loved when you played the Budweiser commercial song, I always found myself clapping. You brought a unique wary of rallying the crowd.
Your family has my deepest sympathy in your loss. God bless!
How you can show support
Meredith Bousman
May 24, 2019
Thank you for being a part of my childhood memories. You were one of a kind.
Ginny Bowen
May 24, 2019
Ernie will be remembered as an important member of the St. Louis Cardinals family. He was still playing when I left St. Louis.....RIP.
diann Hays Cavanaugh
May 5, 2013
As a child I remember what a good friend he was to my mother,Patricia Ann Emerson Hays,He is a Legacy,and every time my little girl plays her organ we will always think of him.
Jeff Hall
January 5, 2013
The best in the business, period! Ernie Hays was as much about the Cardinals as Busch Stadium / Brock/ Gibson / Ozzie / Buck. He will never be replaced, only remembered and missed. RIP Ernie.
Jeff Hall, Burleson, TX
Marigene DeRusha
December 11, 2012
Ernie will be sorely missed. I definitely will miss his emails with jokes and comments! He was a master musician and would light up the Center for Spiritual Living with his music.
My love and blessings to Loretta, his beautiful wife.
Love,
Rev. Marigene DeRusha
United States Navy
George Gemberling (USN-USAF-RET)
November 27, 2012
My sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Hays.
In remembrance of his service to his country:
He said these words -
SAILOR'S CREED
I am a United States Sailor.
I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.
I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.
I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with Honor, Courage, and Commitment.
“May the wind always be on your back and the sun upon your face and may the winds of destiny carry you aloft to dance with the stars.”
I salute you!
George Gemberling, (USN-USAF RET)
Bob Moore
November 12, 2012
I remember Ernie as a Class mate at Houston Mo. High School. A fun loving and very talented musician. I also moved to St. Louis after High School and lost track of Ernie until he started playing the organ for the Cardinals. His music lit up the crowds. While in St Louis a group of Alumni from Houston Mo. living in the St. Louis area got together for a reunion and notified Ernie of the event. Ernie gladly came and was thrilled to see old class mates and entertained us all evening as only Ernie could do.
November 10, 2012
Beloved friend,
You are sorely missed already. You have taken
a huge chunk of our hearts with you. There is
no one like you,nor ever will be. What joy you brought to so many people in various ways. Without a doubt you are the best sports organist in the business. The way you played brought great excitement to the Cardinal Nation, and, good grief, what a cheerleader for each player, by playing their song.
Play on....play on.. Ernie!! Heaven's gain for sure. Thanks for the memories, and thanks for being the most remarkable accompanist a singer could ever have. We love you. See you later genius!
Our prayers and love to Loreta and family.
Bob & Sally McGowan
Beth Salmo
November 7, 2012
Dearest Ernie, I'll never forget your delightfully cantankerous demeanor, honesty, dirty jokes, and red car. I hold our lunches, meetings, and conversations close. Your frequent joke emails, the time you took me to see the inner workings of the stadium, had my name put on the board when I graduated, the way we truly listened to one another. You were like a grandpa to me and I hope I made you proud. I wish you peace - you deserve it. I hope you're wearing suspenders and ticking ivory somewhere. I pray your family can also find their own way in mourning the loss of such a special man. Love you Ernie!
Dennis Morrell
November 7, 2012
During my youth, I used to return from a Blues or a Cardinals games and try to play the music Mr. Hays played. It was one of the the most anticipated things to enjoy in going to a game as a fan. Just the build-up of when he played leading to the Blues stepping onto the ice was enough to really get one's heart pumping. And if he wanted to whip the fans into a frenzy or when the teams scored, the hair would stand up on my neck just to hear those famous tunes. If that hair were to have been quills, people would have thought I was a porcupine. He electrified the buildings and played a role in the great moments hundreds of thousands of fans shared. He has a special place in the hearts of many and thanks to his talents, he will always be remembered fondly. Here is hoping that in the family's time of pain, the good times and the lasting contributions he made to people's lives will allow a smile to come across their faces with warmth to fill their hearts.
James & Laurie Young
November 7, 2012
Dear Pam, Mike and family~ our deepest condolences go out to your entire family. Ernie will be missed by many!
N Ambrose
November 6, 2012
Ernie,
I want to thank you for the two years of private lessons you gave me and for the times in between the periods at the old barn, you let me play a song or two. It was a pleasure working with you at Taylor's Music House and Ludwig/ Aolian in the early 1980s. You are my musical hero. May God Keep you close, and may you keep Jack Buck and Harry Cary entertained along with all the sport stars. God bless the Hays family!
Dick Seger
November 6, 2012
I will miss you saying " Lets do Lunch "
November 5, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
EG
November 5, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
November 5, 2012
MAY THE GOD OF MERCY HELP THE HAYS FAMILY AT THIS TIME.MAY HE OPEN HIS HAND AND SATISFY THE DESIRE OF YOUR HEART....D.M.
November 5, 2012
This Bud is for you Mr. Hayes.....
Alamo, TN
Cg
November 5, 2012
Hays family God's spirit can supply you with power beyond what is normal to help you make it through these difficult times. (2 Corinthians 4:7) I extend my condolences.
Joe Davis
November 4, 2012
Q: What is the one thing that everyone knows about going to the baseball game? A: Ernie Hays on the organ. Ernie, now that you're up in heaven, you'll get as much time as you want to play! My condolences to friends and family in this time of grieving.
November 4, 2012
I did not know Earnie for long but, my wife Donna (DJ) and I had the pleasure of having him as organist for the Spiritual Enrichment Center..Now he is playing to his largest audience... Farewell friend..
Dave and Donna Etling
November 4, 2012
Being a St. Louis Cardinal fan Ernie Hays added so much to the game, with his player intoduction music. He was a true Cardinal.
November 3, 2012
Ernie was my piano teacher when I was in high school in the mid-sixties. I loved him, and I also remember his lovely family. Pamela was a toddler back then. Love, thoughts and prayers to you all.
Barbara Muchnick Summers
November 3, 2012
Please accept our heartfelt sympathies during this time. Romans 15:33.
November 3, 2012
Ernie was a special friend. He was in our home many times to give organ lessons. He would often stay and allow us to treat him to a meal before his drive home. He also gave my daughter piano lessons and helped us with a grand opening of a restaurant. We visited him many times at the stadium and other events he played at. Our family was blessed to have known him :) Pam Runyon
November 3, 2012
With deepest sympathy to the Hays family during your time of sorrow...Proverb 3:5...God is for us a refuge and strength, A help that is readily to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.
Nestor Rivera
November 3, 2012
My condolence Ernie Hays,I did like evrything came out from the Pipe Piano very personality, Like "Les'go Mark MCWire,hammons number "25".Sincerely,Nestor Luis Rivera P.O Box 937 Norwalk CT 06852
BRETT LOCKARD
November 3, 2012
the organs are plying louder in heaven now.
Wendy Brown
November 3, 2012
May The Lord be yr comfort and the knowledge that many of us will miss him too.
Thank you Ernie!
Chris Fahning
November 3, 2012
He was the father of baseball organ, in St. Louis.
November 3, 2012
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. the bible would be of some comfort at john 17:3
Michael Anderson
November 3, 2012
It was through Ernie that I learned that it was impossible to be a Cardinal's fan and not be an Ernie fan. He was an amazing organist!!!
November 3, 2012
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and gave everlasting comfort and good hope by means of undeserved kindness comfort your hearts and make you firm in every good deed and word.
MARK YOUNG
November 2, 2012
TRAVELED MANY TIMES TO BUSCH STADIUM JUST TO HEAR ERNIE PLAY.WE SHARE YOUR SADNESS.
Bankston
November 2, 2012
Mr.Hays will be missed by those whose lives he touched.May the God of peace be with you in the days ahead(Romans 15:33).
November 2, 2012
Loritta, Pam and family, I'm Ken Daub's mom from Las Vegas, (now, back home here to stay). We can only imagine the sudden grief and loss you all are experiencing, as we are also. We wish God's strength to get you through your terrible loss. You know how much Ken loved your family so and spent so much time there, helping out, whenever Earnie phoned. Earnie was like a 2nd father to him, always mentoring him, and taking my calls too, whenever I had to track my son--Ernie'd find him! even if I didn't want to know where! Ken & I are so sorry that Ken couldn't drive me by to see Ernie again, like at a game where Ernie surprised me with my name in big lights saying & playing happy BD. I wanted to meet you, Loritta, & the rest of family, as Ernie expected. Our very deepest condolences are with you, as you hold on to your very precious memories, you will always have to hold & cherish. He'll always be in our thoughts. God Bless,
My son, Ken Daub and Carolyn Thames Williams
Ed & Sharon Bartley
November 2, 2012
Another great man has left earth too soon. He will be missed. Our prayers to the Hays family. He gave us many good times at the park over the years.
November 2, 2012
My sincere condolences to the Hays family.. May the Almighty God supply the comfort needed during your time of grief. Psalms 55:22.
Jem. Florida
JHJ
November 2, 2012
Our prayers are with you. May your memories bring you comfort and strength during this difficult time. Psalm 46:1
Julie Wheeler
November 2, 2012
Pamela and the rest of your family I am sorry for your loss and your Dad will be very deeply missed by many. God has him in His hands now. Thank you for all of your years of entertainment Ernie.
Janne Winterman
November 2, 2012
Ernie was my husband's first boss at Western Electric. When I learned he also played the organ at Busch Stadium, I truly admired his stamina because those were very busy years. My husband died 7 years ago. Maybe the 2 of them can rig up telephone equipment and root for the Cardinals to win the World Series next year.
I extend my deepest sympathies to the family.
Annie I.
November 2, 2012
My heart goes out to you all at this time of deep sorrow. May the God of all comfort be with you as you struggle to cope with your loss.
shelley england
November 1, 2012
As many have said, Ernie you will be greatly missed. For me I will always remember the first time I met you when I was little. I got overheated at the ball game and my daddy took me up to were you played. You let me hang out and finish the game in the ac. What a fun guy you was. From then on I could always recognize your music. At the new stadium I would be at a game and text my dad Ernie is playing tonite. For my dad, I can say you will always hold a special place in his heart, as a mentor, and a friend. I could hear the inspiration you gave him when he played the organ. He thanks you for not just the lessons, the time you took to know him. Play on past those pearly gates Ernie!
Judi Hahn
November 1, 2012
Ernie will be greatly missed. R.I.P. Mr. Hays. Rest in His hands now. God must have one hell of a band up there now. I guess He was just waiting for you to make your entrance.
Debbie Bielicki
November 1, 2012
I met you Ernie while I was working as your dental hygienist. I never knew what to expect........an uncensored joke, a word of wisdom or an array of facts and stories that never ceased to amaze me ! You were kind of a horn dog....but always a gentlemen! I am so glad our paths crossed! We will miss you, but you made a huge imprint on our hearts. I know heaven knew you were coming.....they heard you playing the Budweiser Song on the organ! Thanks Ernie!
David Crawford
November 1, 2012
When the Cardinals made their move to Busch Stadium III, I wasn't too excited about leaving the memories of Busch II behind. That all changed when I walked into the new stadium in '06 and heard Ernie's familiar tunes coming from the organ. For me, hearing Ernie play the organ was a big part of making the new place seem like home. My fiance knew how much I enjoyed Ernie's music that she arranged for us to meet him after a game that year. He was very gracious and seemed appreciative that we appreciated his talents. We still have the picture we took with him that day. Thanks, Ernie, for sharing your love of music with Cardinal Nation.
Eula Fudge
November 1, 2012
Mr. Hayes was well loved by all. I loved to hear him on the organ. Everytime he played for the Clydesdales i would always cry bevause the music so matched the team, just like the were prancing for Ernie.
Peggy Stevens
November 1, 2012
Mr. Hayes, Thank you so much for all the wonderful years of music provided to us and the STL Cardinals. Rest in Peace kind sir. I will never forget being with my sister in law and my brother walking in a short tunnel, leaving "Wrigley" and my brother started verbally thumping to "Here comes the King" and almost everyone joined in and applauded at the end. God bless you and your family. I am sorry for their loss.
Steve Wolf
November 1, 2012
Roger I'm sorry to hear about your father. I know how proud of him and how I use to embarrass you when on inspections I would tell the people who your dad was. St. Louis truly lost a legend. If I can help in any way let me know.
Curtis Gans
November 1, 2012
Ernie was the last and best of the breed. My first encounter with a ballgame organ player was Gladys Gooding who did the Dodger games in the 40s. I hate the canned music revolution and the screaming and repeated introductions. Ernie was an original but, if I had my druthers, I'd like a clone sometime soon.
Foshage-Seyfried
November 1, 2012
Phyllis,
Please know that you and your family have our sincerest sympathy and we pray that the Holy Spirit fills you all with hope as you journey in the hope of Resurrection for your beloved father.
Peace,
Jack Foshage&Warren Seyfried
Bob Murray
November 1, 2012
God Bless to the Hays Family.
Joseph Eckelkamp
November 1, 2012
Thank you, Mr. Hays for all of your contributions to the summers in St. Louis. You were a true gentleman, a great teacher and a superb entertainer. I will be missing you!
Jim Starr
November 1, 2012
Thanks for all of the music Ernie. I will forever remember, and still whistle, all of your great melodies while going to Cardinal games with my dad in the 1970's. Thanks for sharing your gift.
Cardinal Nation
November 1, 2012
Thank you for the joy you brought us all!
Marlene Jones
November 1, 2012
Ernie was amazing musician and I will always remember him with the Cardinals.
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