Christopher Blake Hays

In Loving Memory of Christopher Blake Hays
1957 - 2025
With hearts filled with sorrow yet gratitude for a life well lived, we mourn the sudden passing of Christopher Blake Hays, who was called home on January 24, 2025, at the age of 67, in Willow Park, Texas. Christopher was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished grandfather, and a steadfast friend to many. He was a man of great intelligence, unwavering dedication, and deep faith, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Christopher was born on February 9, 1957, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Emmanuel and Lieselotte Freidel-Hays. He spent his formative years in Labadie, Missouri, where he developed a keen curiosity about the world around him. Even as a young boy, his inquisitive nature and sharp mind were evident. A cherished memory from childhood recalls a fourth-grade adventure with his dear friend Greg Lohmeyer, where the two became utterly convinced that UFOs were real. They firmly believed that the mysterious ringing in one's ears was undeniable proof of alien activity. This playful imagination and thirst for discovery would follow Christopher throughout his life, shaping his passions and pursuits.
Raised in the Lutheran faith, Christopher attended Immanuel Lutheran School in Washington, Missouri, where he was confirmed in the eighth grade. His high school years took him to New Haven, Missouri, where he became a dedicated member of the Lutheran basketball team and discovered what would become a lifelong passion-ham radio-as a member of the Washington High School Radio Club. His love for music also flourished during this time, and he pursued piano lessons at Fontbonne College, where his talent earned him an "Excellent Plus" rating and an Honorable Mention at the prestigious Thirty-Second Annual Music Festival. Christopher's love of learning and pursuit of excellence set the foundation for a bright future.
He continued his education at Southwest Missouri State University, where he earned a degree in engineering. His sharp intellect and unwavering work ethic led him to his first professional role at McDonnell Douglas in 1980, where he contributed to the F-16 program. He thrived in this environment, deeply enjoying his work, and had the incredible opportunity to give presentations to high-ranking U.S. Navy officials. His role also allowed him the rare and thrilling experience of boarding U.S. Navy carriers, a privilege he greatly cherished.
It was during this time that Christopher met Mary Ann Miller, the love of his life. Their paths crossed in September 1981, in a Sunday school class at Hope Congregational Church in St. Louis, Missouri. A love built on faith and friendship quickly blossomed, and they were married one year later, in September 1982. Their marriage was a testament to devotion, partnership, and unwavering support, built on shared values and an unbreakable bond.
Their greatest blessings came in the form of their two beloved daughters: Melissa, born in May 1986, and Sarah, born in December 1991. Christopher was a devoted father, always providing guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love. In 2001, the Hays family made a new home in Willow Park, Texas, when Christopher was offered an exciting opportunity at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. He continued working on the F-16 program, dedicating the next 24 years of his career to the company. He was known as a brilliant and hardworking professional, someone who always went above and beyond to ensure that the needs of his team and clients were met with nothing but excellence. Respected among his peers for his expertise, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication, Christopher took immense pride in his work.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Christopher's true joy came from his family. He adored his two granddaughters, Anabelle and Adaline Herringer, who were born to his eldest daughter, Melissa Hayes Herringer. They were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them, showering them with love, wisdom, and laughter.
Christopher was a man of many passions. His lifelong love for ham radio connected him with people from all over the world, forming friendships that lasted decades. He was known in the ham radio community as a knowledgeable and welcoming presence, always eager to engage in conversations and share his expertise. He also had a deep love for motorcycles, finding joy in riding through the scenic landscapes of Missouri and Texas, experiencing the open road with a sense of freedom and adventure.
His love for music remained a constant throughout his life. While rock 'n' roll was his preferred genre, he had an appreciation for various styles of music. In his later years, he took up the guitar, embracing the challenge of learning a new instrument with the same enthusiasm that he approached everything in life.
Christopher also had a wonderful sense of humor, with one of his favorite movies being "A Christmas Story." He often referenced its hilarious moments, especially relating to the father figure in the film, whom he found reminiscent of his own dad.
Christopher was a man you could always count on-a pillar of strength, reliability, and kindness. His unwavering faith in Jesus Christ gave him peace in his final days, and he made it known to his beloved wife, Mary Ann that he was assured of his salvation and the forgiveness of his sins. He even expressed his heartfelt hope that his little dog, Buddy, would be there to greet him when he arrived in Heaven.
Christopher is preceded in death by his parents, Emmanuel and Liselotte Freidel-Hayes, and his brother, Timothy Hayes. He is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Mary Ann Hays; his loving daughters, Melissa Hays-Heringer and Sarah Hays; his son-in-law, Shawn Herringer; his adored granddaughters, Anabelle and Adaline Herringer; his sister-in-law, Penny Hays; and numerous extended family members and dear friends who will forever hold his memory in their hearts.
Christopher's legacy will live on through his family and the countless lives he touched. Though he is no longer physically present,Christopher's legacy will live on through his family and the countless lives he touched. Though he is no longer physically present, the love, wisdom, and kindness he shared will continue to inspire those who knew him.
A celebration of Christopher's life will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at the Azle funeral chapel on the grounds with Azleland Cemetery. The visitation will begin at 1 PM and the funeral service will be at 2 PM followed by committal service at Azleland Cemetery.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Christopher Blake Hays, please visit our floral store.