James Eric Hay, a longtime businessman of Wichita Falls, Texas, passed away April 6, 2022, at the age of 77 at his home in Clay County, Texas.

Jim's celebration of a life well lived will be held at First Christian Church, Wichita Falls, Texas, with Dr. Mark Bender and Dr. David Hartman officiating. The service will be on Monday, April 18, 2022 at 2:00 P.M. First Christian Church will also be live streaming the service on their website at https://firstchristianwf.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home.

Jim was born June 13, 1944 in Wichita Falls, Texas to Dr. James E. Hay and Rubye Gist Hay.  Jim graduated from Wichita Falls High School in 1962.  He was involved in sports and served as President of The National Thespian Society.  This might have been the reason he was never afraid to speak to an audience of one or an audience of one thousand.  He was gifted with a charismatic personality and loved to host and entertain family and friends.  He was the ultimate gentleman and always willing to help anyone in need.

Jim attended Midwestern State University and was active in The National Society of Pershing Rifles program.  He was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity.  Jim was drafted into the US Army in 1966 and served in the Vietnam War.  He was very proud to have served his country.

After college, Jim was the manager for Taco Burrito until joining his brother-in-law, Hank Wagoner, at Wichita Restaurant Supply in 1980.  He later purchased the business from Hank.  He started purchasing land in Clay County where he and his wife Sandy built their home, which inspired their ranch romance. Jim and Sandy were married June 6, 1981 in the chapel at First Christian Church.

Jim's history with First Christian Church began at infancy.  He loved to say, "I was baptized, married and plan to be interred in the columbarium at First Christian Church."  Throughout the years, Jim served as Church Board Chairman, elder, deacon and served on various other committees.  He was named "CMF Man of the Year" in 2009 and also received "Elder Emeritus Award" in 2020.

He was also a member of The Mavericks of Wichita Falls and served as Maitre'd for many years.  He also served two different terms as Board President.  Jim received the "Lifetime Maverick Award" for his many years of dedicated service.  He also was awarded the "Legacy Award," as a tribute to the memory of James Lane.  He cherished the friendships he made with these men and loved to tell stories about the good times.

At the persuasion of Dr. Dave Hartman, Jim served on the Times Record News Editorial Board in 2014.  He wrote entertaining articles about real life, ranch life and his special relationship to his father-in-law, Vern Harrison.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. James E. Hay and Rubye Gist Hay; and sister, Janett Hay Wagoner.

Jim is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sandy;  son, Brad Featherston and wife, Pam; sister, Janell Hay Lundin and spouse, Steve; his grandchildren and many nieces and nephews that he loved and adored.

For those desiring, the family requests memorials be made in honor of Jim to First Christian Church, 3701 Taft Blvd., Wichita Falls, TX 76308 or Hospice of Wichita Falls, 4909 Johnson Rd., Wichita Falls, TX 76310.