Neil Allen Hayes, a longtime Kansas teacher and coach who influenced generations of students and athletes throughout his more than 40-year career, has died at the age of 82.
Hayes, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away on November 1, 2026, at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. His death was announced in an obituary published by the Lawrence Journal-World on November 5, 2026.
Born on January 28, 1944, in Hutchinson, Kansas, Neil was the son of Elmer and Margaret Dondlinger Hayes. He grew up in Kansas and later dedicated much of his professional life to education, mathematics, and coaching.
Neil Hayes Spent More Than 40 Years in Education
Hayes worked as a mathematics teacher and coach at several Kansas schools, including Haven, Hutchinson, Kapaun Mt. Carmel, and McLouth High Schools.
During his career, he became a respected educator and mentor who cared deeply about his students. His influence extended beyond the classroom and athletic fields, as he helped young people develop confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve success in both school and life.
According to his obituary, teaching and coaching were more than just professions for Hayes. They were his calling. Many students and players considered him a role model because of the encouragement and guidance he provided throughout their lives.
His commitment to education left a lasting impression on the communities and schools where he worked.
Family Life and Survivors
Family was among the most important parts of Hayes’ life. He married Lynette Geffert on August 27, 1966, in Hutchinson, Kansas. The couple shared 60 years of marriage, and Lynette survives him at their home.
His surviving family members include his children, Scott Hayes and his wife, Jolene; Stacie Hrabe and her husband, Kelley; and Kristin Bell and her husband, John.
He also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Josie, Gwyneth, and Kai Hayes; Zoey and Violet Hrabe; and James and Sloane Bell.
His siblings Jim Hayes, Jack Hayes, and Marcia McAnarney also survive him. His parents, Elmer and Margaret, and his brother Bill Hayes, preceded him in death.
After retiring, Hayes enjoyed spending time following his grandchildren’s achievements, performances, and competitions. He also devoted many hours to serving Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie, Kansas.
His Catholic faith and the support of his family remained important sources of strength during his battle with prostate cancer and Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Funeral and Memorial Services
A Rosary and visitation for Neil Allen Hayes will take place on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, located at 1100 West St. in Tonganoxie, Kansas.
The Rosary will begin at 6 p.m., followed by visitation until 8 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Tonganoxie. A lunch will also be held at the church.
The family has requested that memorial contributions be made to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Building Fund or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Donations may be sent through Warren-McElwain Mortuary at 120 W. 13th St., Lawrence, KS 66044.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services in Lawrence.
Hayes will be remembered for his dedication to education, his commitment to his faith, and the lasting difference he made in the lives of his students, athletes, friends, and family.
