Jo Lynn (Haecker) Hays

With heavy hearts and deep sadness, we announce the passing of Jo Lynn Hays, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend to many. Jo was born on October 23, 1958, in Fort Wayne, and unexpectedly left us on May 26, 2024, in North Manchester.

Jo Lynn was a remarkable individual who dedicated her life to serving others. After graduating from Manchester High School in 1976, Jo went on to graduate from Manchester College in 1980 with a degree in Secretarial Studies. It was during her senior year that she met William “Bill” Hays. The two married on June 12, 1983 and were blessed with two sons, David and Brian. Jo embarked on a successful career, working at Indiana Lawrence Bank for fifteen years, followed by Naragon & Purdy, Inc., CPA, for twenty years, and finally Manchester University for almost a decade.

A pillar of her community, Jo Lynn was a lifelong member of North Manchester First Brethren Church, where she shared her musical talents by playing the bells for many years. She was also a member of Tri-Kappa and the North Manchester Moose organizations. Known for her selflessness and unwavering kindness, Jo Lynn was the glue that held her family together, always prioritizing their well-being before her own.

In her leisure time, Jo Lynn cherished moments spent with her family and friends, reveling in the joy that these relationships brought her. She was a dedicated mother, a supportive wife, a loving grandma, and a supportive aunt to her niece and nephew. Her passion for preserving family history made her the go-to person for all matters regarding their lineage.

Jo Lynn's memory will forever be cherished by her husband of nearly forty-one years, William Bentrup “Bill” Hays, North Manchester; sons, David (Crystal) Hays, Warsaw and Brian (Amber) Hays, Spring Lake, Michigan; brother, Craig (Rita) Haecker, North Manchester; grandchildren, Monica, Sophie, Mabel, Murray, Bentrip, and Holland; her niece and nephew, Addie and Kolby Haecker, whom she loved like grandchildren; and multitude of family members and friends whose lives she touched profoundly. Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Charles R. and Norma J. (Frey) Haecker; brother, Terry Haecker; sister, Sherry Haecker; and niece, Zoe Haecker.

Family and friends may call Sunday, June 2, 2024 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. A funeral service to celebrate Jo’s remarkable life will take place at North Manchester First Brethren Church, 407 North Sycamore Street, North Manchester, on June 3, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at 5:00 p.m., with Pastor Kurt Stout officiating. A private family burial will be held at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in North Manchester at a later date.

Jo Lynn Hays will be deeply missed but always remembered for her warmth, compassion, and generosity. In lieu of flowers, Jo would like people to take a family vacation and enjoy the little moments in life.

The family of Jo Lynn Hays has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.