Vera Jane Wiggans Hays, 80, formerly of Fort Scott, died Wednesday evening, Aug. 22, 2018, at Greystone Assisted Living in Iola. Vera was born Aug. 9, 1938, to Marjorie and Pascal Wiggans in rural Bronson. She attended Bronson schools, played basketball and was drum majorette. Vera married Bernard Bun Hays in 1956 in Miami, Okla. Together, they raised four children that were the love of her life. Vera worked for Braemor and Key Industries for more than 40 years and was a friend to all she met. She always loved animals, especially dogs. Vera was an accomplished seamstress, quilter and crocheted, often creating clothes for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Vera loved music ranging from Elvis to traditional western to her grandsons alt-rock band. She enjoyed the Fort Scott Opry and other local music performances. She was a regular at the Greystone Assisted Living cultural events singing along with guest musicians.
Vera was pre-deceased by her parents, husband Bun and many loved dogs. She is survived by her beloved Boston Terrier Raven, sister Wanda Lou Woodward of Manhattan, sons Michael Mick (Janet) of Iola, Martin of El Dorado, daughters Joni (Blane) Peters of Still-water, Okla., and Lori of Garden City; grandchildren Blake (Andis) Hill, Brittany (Jake) Keltner, Reagan Hill, Emily (Dallas) Funk, Thomas Hays and James Hays; and stepgrandchildren Chris (Keri) Johnson and Aaron (Ashley) St. Clair also survive. Vera also is survived by great-grandchildren Parker, Adryannah, Piper, Ellie, Carsen, Samson and Paysly.
Pastor Lloyd Houk will conduct funeral services at 12:30 p.m. Monday at the Cheney Witt Chapel, Fort Scott. Burial will follow in the U. S. National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Brain Injury Association of Kansas and Greater Kansas City, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, Lower Level Kansas City, MO 64105 or in care of Cheney Witt Chapel, P.O. Box 347, 201 S. Main, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
