Emily Kay Hayes, age 80, of Cassville, Missouri.

Emily Kay Hayes, age 80, of Cassville, Missouri passed away peacefully Friday, January 17, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

She was born on February 13, 1944, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, she was the daughter of Robert and Latrell (Jones) Nunnallee.  On April 14, 1962, in Miami, Oklahoma she was united in marriage to Bobby Ray "Bob" Hayes.  Their union was one of enduring love and partnership until Bob's passing in 2022. Kay was also preceded in death by her parents; two sons, Robert and Ernest Hayes, and daughter-in-law, Tammy Pointer - Hayes.

Kay is survived by her son, Kevin Hayes of Cassville, Missouri; daughter, Glenna Hayes of Cassville, Missouri; sister, Norene Bridges and her husband Mick of Branson, Missouri; nine grandchildren; eighteen great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.

She was a member of the Cherokee Tribe, and kin to the legendary Will Rogers. Raised by her maternal grandparents, Guy and Eva Prater, from the age of six. Kay's roots ran deep in the Cassville community where she lived for 64 years. Kay was a proud graduate of Cassville High School, class of 1962. Her early years included memorable times working at Wooten's Drug Store during high school and later dedicating many years as an inspector for Justin Boot. She often said, "life was tough," but faced every challenge with grace and determination. Kay had a passion for traveling, especially enjoying 25 years of visits to the Gulf Coast and Biloxi. Camping trips were treasured times, as were the moments spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

Kay was baptized in Flat Creek alongside her husband Bob and was a devoted member of Gunter Methodist Church in Butterfield for 50 years. In later years, when her health began to decline, she attended Blessing Heights Worship Center in Cassville. Kay was a loving individual; known for the kindness and strength she demonstrated throughout her life. Her presence will be missed by all who knew her.

Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at Gunter Methodist Church in Butterfield, Missouri under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.  Pastor Jerry Nickle will conduct the services. Burial will be at Gunter Cemetery in Butterfield, Missouri.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time Tuesday at Gunter Methodist Church.

Contributions may be made to Gunter Cemetery in memory of Kay.

Visit www.fohnfuneralhome.com for online obituaries, guestbook and private condolences.