Denise Kathryn Hays (Mema)'s Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Denise Kathryn Hays, better known as Mema to her kids and grandkids, on January 22, 2026. She left this world in the same way she lived much of her life — calm, cozy, and probably telling Eric to “just let me rest a minute.”
Denise’s story was one of humor, warmth, and a remarkable ability to feed an army with a single casserole dish. She was the loving mother to three sons she adored (and occasionally threatened to disown during their teenage years): Steve (Melinda) Hays, Eric Hays, and Nathan (Samantha) Hays. Each of them carries her stubborn streak, her generous heart, and her uncanny skill to make anything happen even when it seems impossible.
She is also survived by her brothers Danny (Margaret) Casey, David (Kelly) Casey, and RJ (Dawn) Burch; her stepsister Lisa Plisinski; her stepmother Mary Casey; and stepfather Ross Hoffman— all of whom knew better than to argue with her when she had “that look.
Denise, or “Mema” as her grandkids proudly called her, was a woman who never left a room without making it brighter (and probably rearranging the furniture just a bit). She had a gift for laughter, a passion for people, and a soft heart that could hold the whole world. Her love was the kind that showed up with cinnamon rolls and a hug that lasted just long enough to fix whatever was wrong.
We’ll miss her wisdom, her love for music, and her world-class eye rolls — but mostly, we’ll miss the way she made all of us feel endlessly loved and impossibly full (of both food and joy).
A celebration of Denise’s life will be held at a later date. In true Mema fashion, please wear something comfortable, share something funny, and for heaven’s sake, do come hungry — she’d never forgive us if you did not.
Rest easy, Mema. Heaven just got a little louder, a little brighter, and a whole lot better fed.
What’s your fondest memory of Denise?
What’s a lesson you learned from Denise?
Share a story where Denise's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Denise you’ll never forget.
How did Denise make you smile?