Geraldine "Jerri" Ayers Hays

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, wife, grandmother, sister, and friend, Geraldine (Jerri) Ayers Hays, who entered eternal rest on September 27, 2026, at the age of 75.

Born in Lampasas, Texas, on September 12, 1951, she grew up in the heart of Austin, Texas, where she graduated from Lanier High School. Austin was where she built a life centered on love, family, and hard work. She married Danny Hays, and together they raised three children and built a family that meant the world to her.

Throughout her life, she dedicated her career to serving others through her work with the State of Texas. Her incredible work ethic, leadership, and gentle spirit led to a long, remarkably successful career, one where she gained not just respected colleagues, but lifelong, dear friends.

To know Jerri was to know true grace, kindness, and an extraordinary, steady calm. She possessed a rare and beautiful gift, an innate ability to see the absolute best in everyone she met. Her patience was endless, her heart was limitless, and her soothing presence was a comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Above all her achievements, her greatest joy and proudest legacy was her family. She was an incredible, selfless mother who gave her everything to her children, and her love blossomed even further with the arrival of her grandchildren and great grandchild. She adored her family beyond measure, and her warmth will forever reside in their hearts.

Though our grief is deep, we find solace and comfort in knowing that she is no longer in pain. We are at peace believing she has been lovingly embraced in heaven, reunited with the cherished family members and loved ones who passed before her.

Our family extends our deepest and most sincere gratitude to the dedicated doctors, nurses, and care team at St. David’s North Austin Medical Center. The exceptional care, dignity, and gentle comfort they provided during her final days meant the world to us, and we remain forever grateful for their kindness.

She is survived by her husband, Danny Hays; her sons, Danny Hays Jr. and Patrick Hays; her daughter, Denise Ehler; her brother, Donald Ayers; her sister, Carolyn Buchanan; six beloved grandchildren; one cherished great grandchild; and a community of extended family, dear friends, and former coworkers who loved her dearly and will miss her deeply.

Her sweet soul, unwavering love, and gentle light will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Mama