Mrs. Josephine “Josie” McRae Hays, age 69, of Hazlehurst, passed away at her residence, Monday, September 14, 2026, under the care of Comfort Care Hospice.

Mrs. Hays was born on November 08, 1956, and was the daughter of the late Robert Earl McRae and Doreatha Varnadore McRae. She had a sweet disposition and found joy in the simple things in life. She loved crafting, reading, and taking pictures, always enjoying the opportunity to create, learn, and capture special moments. She had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found gardening, tending to her flowers, or bird watching. Josie was also a wonderful cook and talented cake decorator, with red velvet cake being her specialty. Above all, she cherished her family, especially her grandchildren. Being a great Meme was more than a role to Josie—it was her purpose, and she treasured every moment spent loving and making memories with them. She also adored her two beloved dogs, Vannie and Zoey. Josie's faith was a central part of who she was. She loved Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and spoke of Him often. Her family finds comfort in knowing exactly where Josie is today, resting in the arms of the Savior she loved so dearly.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Juanita Ray Fralick, brother, Dwane McRae, brother-in-law, Randy Thompson.

Mrs. Hays is survived by her husband, Robert Donald Hays of Hazlehurst; two sons and daughters-in-law, Jason Wayne (Jaime) Taylor of Denton and Justin Kyle (Amy) Taylor of Hazlehurst; brother, Randall (Brenda) McRae of Glennville; three sisters, Robbie (Freddy) LoBue of Indiana, Barbara (Roger) Harrelson of Metter and Sara Thompson of Hazlehurst; six grandchildren, Ty Taylor, Tucker Taylor, Adi Mae Taylor, Jesse (Megan) Blanton, Jake (Jobbie) Blanton and Katie (Blake) Tomberlin; several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews also survive.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11:00AM at Burkett Baptist Church in Coffee County.

Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home and the Hays family are in charge of arrangements.