Thomas A. "Tommy" Hays Jr.

SALEM - Thomas "Tommy" A. Hays Jr., 27, a cherished son, brother, and friend, went to be with his grandpa, Allen Hays, in Heaven after passing suddenly on January 27, 2026.

Born on October 22, 1998, in Salem he grew up surrounded by a loving family including his mother, Roxanne (Dan) McFarland; father, Thomas (Traci) Hays, and his adored siblings sister, Hanna, and brothers, Tyler, Nathan, and Alex. He was a cherished grandson to Esther Baughman and Patricia Hays and remembered his late paternal grandfather, Allen Hays and step-maternal grandmother Vicki Marple with fond memories.

Tommy started working at EDI Central in Lisbon in 2018, where he thoroughly enjoyed his time with the staff and fellow clients.

He loved to watch the Game Show Network, Bugs Bunny and Bluey. Tommy was rarely seen without Bugs Bunny socks, a matching T-shirt and coffee mug. He also enjoyed playing with Legos.

Tommy was a cat lover and his adored cat, Crash, as well as his dog, Bella.

Visitation for Tommy will be from 3:00-4:00 p.m., Monday, February 2, 2026, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 4:00 p.m. with Rev. James Berkebile officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Employment Development Incorporated, 8330 County Home Road, Lisbon, Ohio 44432.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Tommy's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.