Jack C. Hays, Jr., fondly known to many as “Pappy Jack,” passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at York Hospital in York, PA. He was 83.
Born on January 22, 1942, in Hagerstown, MD, Jack was the son of the late Jack C. Hays, Sr. and Eva “Pauline” (Garmong) Hays.
He graduated from North Hagerstown High School with the class of 1959 and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Navy from 1959 to 1963, with time stationed in Japan.
On March 30, 1973, Jack married the love of his life, Peggy A. (Myers) Hays, at the Washington Square United Methodist Church in Hagerstown, MD. Their love story would span over five decades, rooted in deep connection, laughter, and devotion to family.
Jack had a rich and varied career. He served on the D.C. police force from 1964 to 1967, then transitioned into the auto sales industry from 1968 until his retirement in 1996. Never one to sit still, Jack later pursued his interest in antiques, buying and selling from 1997 until 2004, when his grandson Connor was born. However, Jack retired once more—this time proudly taking on his favorite role: full-time “Pap.” He never missed a chance to babysit, support, and simply be present for Connor.
A proud member of the Greencastle VFW Post #1599 and the American Legion Post #373, Jack also previously belonged to the State Line Ruritan Club. He had a passion for collecting—coins, stamps, and baseball cards—and especially loved watching baseball. But nothing brought him more joy than watching his grandson play, from the little league fields to college games.
Those who knew Jack remember his sharp wit, quick comebacks, and dry sense of humor. He had a head for numbers, was intentional in everything he did, and never shied away from speaking his mind. His family will remember him as lovingly ornery—a character trait that made him truly one of a kind.
Jack is survived by his devoted wife, Peggy; his daughter, Julie M. Rohm, and her husband, Coy, of Greencastle; his grandson and pride and joy, Connor Rohm, also of Greencastle; his son, James C. Hays of West Virginia; and a daughter, Cari A. Hays of California. He is also survived by a niece Tammy Ward of Greencastle nephews, Jeff Hartman of Greencastle, and Robert M. Hays, Jr. of Arkansas; two aunts, Patricia Pryor of Hagerstown, MD and Harriet Pickral of Norfolk, VA; and many cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his younger brother, Robert M. Hays, Sr.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Miller-Bowersox Funeral Home, 521 S. Washington St., Greencastle. Pastor Mike Carey will officiate. Burial with military honors—provided by Charles Nitterhouse VFW Post #1599—will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Greencastle.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jack’s name may be made to:
• Jerome King Playground
• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
• Wounded Warrior Project
Online condolences may be expressed at www.bowersoxfuneralhomes.com.
