John William Hays, 57, of Fords, passed away on September 8, 2014, at Raritan Bay Medical Center, Perth Amboy. Born in Irvington, John had lived in Fords for 24 years. He was employed as a Welder for Woodbridge Township Department of Public Works.

John is predeceased by his parents, Allen and Genevieve Hays, and niece, Sandra Streimer. He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Meryl K. (Herbert) Hays; two children, Juliana K. and John A. Hays, at home; two brothers, Allen F. Hays and sister-in-law Shirley and Kenneth C. Hays and sister-in-law Christine both of Sayreville; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

John loved to go fishing with his kids, watching short track racing, playing darts and the New Orleans Saints Football Team.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2014 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at Flynn and Son Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave., Fords. Cremation will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to the family for John's and Juliana's education.