William Keith Hays, 67, passed away on February 7, 2024 at Kingwood, TX. He was a seventh generation Floridian, born on November 6, 1956 at Ocala, FL to Arthur Moore Thompson, Jr. and JoAnne Leard Thompson. JoAnne subsequently married Col. George William Hays, USMC (Ret.) on August 18, 1963 at Yankeetown, FL and on December 30, 1964 he adopted Keith and his two brothers, Arthur Moore and Joel Kevin, and legally changed their last name to Hays.

Keith was a former resident of Tallahassee, FL, where he graduated from Leon High School and attended Tallahassee Community College.

Keith worked as a manager in the restaurant industry, starting with Jim & Milts Bar-B-Que in Tallahassee. He worked in a number of restaurants, mostly in the South, including Luther's Bar-B-Que and Burger King. He was last employed for many years as district manager for Popeye's in Houston.

Keith enjoyed spending time with his family boating, fishing, going to the beach and grilling.

Keith is survived by his wife, Janice Marie Hays of Humble, TX, daughters Ashley Marie Hays (partner John Crawford) of Lufkin, TX, Stephanie Ann Vasquez (David) of Woodlands, TX and brother Arthur Moore Hays (Candy) of Clearwater, FL. He is survived by grandchildren Leah, Jordan, Trey, Abagail, Kaitlyn, Kennith and Carly; and great-grandchildren Athena and Zayvion. Keith was pre-deceased by parents Arthur M. Thompson, Jr. and JoAnne Leard Hays, step-father George William Hays, and brother Joel Kevin Hays.

The family is especially grateful to Keith's grandsons, Jordan Hays and Trey Leblanc, and their loving assistance to Keith over the years he suffered with health issues.

A private family service will be held at a later date.