Starkville MS, August 20, 2025
News Summary
The Starkville community gathers to honor Wendy Kaye Naramore Hays, who bravely fought cancer. Her celebration of life is set for August 23, embracing her vibrant spirit.
Starkville Community Celebrates the Life of Wendy Hays After Her Courageous Battle with Cancer
Starkville, MS – On Monday, August 18, 2025, the community of Starkville mourned the loss of a beloved member, Wendy Kaye Naramore Hays, who passed away after bravely facing her battle with mesothelioma. Wendy spent her final moments at home, surrounded by her family, who cherished every extra moment they were given with her. They consider this year together a miraculous blessing, filled with love and precious memories.
A Celebration of Life
A heartwarming celebration of Wendy’s life is set to take place this Saturday, August 23, 2025. Friends, family, and supporters are invited to gather at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 413 Abernathy Dr, Starkville, MS 39759. The visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. CST, providing an opportunity for attendees to pay their respects and support the family during this difficult time.
The funeral service will begin promptly at 11:00 a.m., and will be followed by a burial at Curtis Chapel Cemetery. Wendy’s family has warmly welcomed flowers from those wishing to honor her memory and has also suggested donations to the Homeward Bound Project of Mississippi, a cause close to their hearts.
Dress Code and Tributes
In keeping with Wendy’s vibrant spirit, attendees are encouraged to dress in maroon, tie-dye, and other groovy clothing. It’s a way for everyone to come together and celebrate the fun-loving nature of Wendy, which will undoubtedly bring some light during this somber occasion. The celebration will even feature the ringing of cowbells during the graveside service, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own to add to the festive spirit.
A Loving Family
Wendy leaves behind a loving family that includes her parents, Glen and Linda Naramore, her mother-in-law Carrie Frances Wilson Hays, and her husband, Paul Hays. She had four wonderful children: Paul, Rick (who is married to Trisha), Jacob (who is married to Emily), and Shane. Wendy also embraced her role as a stepmother to Natalie (married to Noah), James, and Adam, along with a cherished nephew, Brant, and a legacy of grandchildren including Isaac, Sadie, Phoebe, Daisy, Calvin, and William.
Sadly, she was preceded in death by her brother, Shane Naramore, and her grandparents from both sides, adding to the family’s deep sense of loss.
Offering Condolences
The family invites those who would like to share their condolences to visit www.welchfuneralhomes.com. For any inquiries, the main switchboard can be reached at (662) 328-2424. This supportive community is taking steps to honor Wendy’s memory and carry forward the love she exemplified in her life.
Conclusion
As Starkville comes together to celebrate this remarkable woman, the memories and love shared will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. Wendy Hays not only touched the lives of her family but also reached far and wide into the community. Her legacy of joy, resilience, and compassion will always be remembered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date and time of the celebration of life for Wendy Hays?
The celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. CST, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.
Where will the celebration take place?
The celebration will take place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 413 Abernathy Dr, Starkville, MS 39759.
Can I send flowers or make a donation?
Yes, the family welcomes flowers and suggests donations to the Homeward Bound Project of Mississippi.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Wendy Hays Obituary
- Wikipedia: Mesothelioma
- Community Celebrates Wendy Hays
- Google Search: Wendy Hays
- Family Encourages Donations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cancer
- Wendy Hays Funeral Details
- Google News: Wendy Hays Funeral
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
