Duane E. Hays

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Duane Edward Hays, who left us on November 22, 2024. Born on January 16, 1940, in Columbus, Ohio, Duane lived a life marked by dedication, love, and service to his family and community.

Duane was the beloved son of Charles and Dorcus Hays (both deceased) and the cherished brother of Charlie Hays and his wife Janice Hays, and his nieces Heather and Cheryl (and families). He is survived by his devoted wife, Judy Wright Harris Hays, and his previous spouse, Carolyn Joyce Hays, with whom he had three children: Lisa Rambo (Jim), Scott Hays, and Jonathan Hays (Allison). Duane was a proud grandfather to Taylor Wiedemann (Brett), Matt Rambo (Sophie), Paisley Hays, James Hays, and Roma Hays, and a great-grandfather to Landry Wiedemann. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Scott Harris (Patty) and Susanna Noon (Michael); his step-grandchildren, Tomas, Belen, Phineas, Charlie, and Ada; his stepsisters Jeri Pelton (John) and Sue Van Vliet; and his nieces and nephews: Debbie, Diane, David and Daniel and their families. He is also survived by his great friends; the Klimke’s, Sweeney’s, Rinehart’s, Miller’s, Graham’s and his cat, Cassie.

Duane graduated from North High in 1958, where he was a class officer and very active in sports, choir, and many other activities. Duane was a long-time member of the old NH Men’s Club, and Duane and Judy were both members of the NHS Alumni Choir and the 58 Dinner Club. Duane will be missed by his many NH friends and his Muirfield friends.

Duane loved animals and during his high school time worked at a veterinary clinic. While a freshman at Ohio State University, he was a trainer for the athletic department and Woody Hayes. He served in the U.S. Army for three years as a medic in Alaska where he skied more than 400 miles of the Iditarod Trail.

Duane's professional life was marked by his 25 years of service as Deputy Administrator and Administrator of the Franklin County Common Pleas Court, where he became the longest-tenured Administrator in the court's history. His commitment to justice and his community left an indelible mark on all who worked with him. In recognition of his service to the court system and North High School, he was elected to the Polar Bear Hall of Fame in 2017. He also led the 1958 Class Reunion Committee.

Raised as a 32nd degree Mason in Blendon Lodge #339, Duane was a dedicated member of the Scottish Rite, York Rite, and an active participant in the Aladdin Shrine, Brutal Brothers, and Jesters. His Masonic brethren held a special place in his heart, and he cherished the camaraderie and fellowship they shared.

Duane called Ohio home, and he and Judy lived happily in Muirfield Village for over 20 years. During this time, they both played golf and were members of the Country Club. They loved to travel and had a memorable trip around the world in 2008. They also traveled to California, Oregon, Alaska, Hawaii, Florida, the East Coast, and many other places.

Known for his active participation in the lives of his family and friends, Duane was often found showing up unannounced and always incredibly early, a testament to his eagerness to be present and involved. Duane always brightened the room with his humor, stories, friendliness, and fun personality, although many question whether or not Kitty’s Showbar actually exists. While 84 years may not seem premature, it was still far too early for those who knew and loved Duane.

To celebrate Duane's life a visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M with a memorial service immediately following at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday December 8, 2024 at Schoedinger Dublin; 5980 Perimeter Drive Dublin, Ohio 43017. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Duane’s memory to the Shriner’s Hospitals or Cozy Cat Cottage in Powell.

Rest in peace, Duane. Your memory will forever be a blessing to us all.