Lenell Hays

Lenell Hays, devoted Mom, Grammy, and cherished Wife, passed away on March 18, 2025, at the age of 81.

Lenell was born the youngest of nine siblings on October 17, 1943, in Miles, Texas, to Ewald Emil and Clara Mae (Kiesling) Eschberger. She spent her life in the heart of rural Texas, where she met Gordon, the love of her life and husband of 61 years. They raised their daughters, Kathy and Kristy, in Ballinger where Lenell also worked in insurance followed by over 30 years of service with Ballinger ISD. Lenell was often seen working alongside Gordon in their ranching business and serving various needs at the church or within the community. She was known for her kind heart, and she loved and served her Lord, family, church, and community fiercely.

Lenell was preceded in death by her parents, Ewald and Claire Eschberger, two infant sons Stacy Lynn and Kelly Wayne Hays, siblings Evelyn Kunkel, Dorothy Hahn (Erwin), Emily Krieg (Norman), Paulene Hutchinson, Elna Weise (Wilton), Clara Lois Robbins (Joe), Eldon Eschberger (Patti) and brother-in law Herb Hunter. Lenell was always a favorite of Gordon’s family as well. Proceeding her in death were brother and sisters in law Bill Hays (Dorothy), Keva Lou Hancock (Jack), John Hays (Betty dec.1984) (Karen), Peggy Robertson.

Lenell is survived by her loving husband, Gordon Hays, and their two daughters, Kathy Fairbanks (John) and Kristy Chadwell (Billy), and grandkids Logan and Hayley Chadwell, Kendal Subia (Nando), Jacob Psutka, Sarah Perry (Graham and great grandkids Clifford, Hannah, and John), Garrett Fairbanks (Megan), also, her sister Irene Hunter, brothers in law Bill Hutchinson and Eugene Robertson as well as numerous nieces and nephews and many special friends who Lenell considered family. Lenell’s community of family and friends was large and she will be deeply missed by all who were privileged to know and love her.

A service celebrating Lenell will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11:00 am at the First Methodist Church in Ballinger, Texas with Gary Booth officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to the First Methodist Church of Ballinger (1501 N. Broadway Ballinger, TX 76821), or any charity of choice in Lenell’s memory, reflecting her giving spirit and love for her community.