Hennessey, OK - Larry Dean Hays was born in Enid, Oklahoma, on December 22, 1945, to Doris Morrison Hays and Okley William Hays. Larry, 80, of Hennessey, Oklahoma, passed away January 1, 2026, in Enid, Oklahoma.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Debbie Long Hays; daughter Lara Jo Koch and husband Brent of Tulsa, granddaughter Abie Jo Koch Tetrick and husband Ty of Phoenix, Arizona; son Brandon Hays, wife Kacy and granddaughters Kalle and Zoey Hays of Edmond.

As one of 14 children, he is survived by sisters, Jonna Miramontes, Madeline Unruh; brothers, Terry, Garry, Guy, and Worry Hays. He was preceded in death by his parents Okley and Doris Hays, and siblings Marvin, Colleen, Velma, Donna, Joe, Thurman, and Bob Hays.

Larry graduated from Garber High School in 1964 and Phillips University in 1968. After a teaching and coaching career in Kremlin and Hennessey he worked for Pioneer Transports Oil Company and then had a long career as an agent and district manager for Oklahoma Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Hennessey. Graveside services will follow at Hennessey Cemetery under the direction of Cordry-Gritz Funeral Home. The casket will remain closed at the church, but will be open at the funeral home from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to First Christian Church of Hennessey, with the funeral home serving as custodian of the fund.