Robert Penman Hays, 74, of Nederland, died Saturday, November 23, 2013, at Harbor Hospice, in Beaumont. He was born on February 16, 1939, to Robert J. and Dorothy Hays in Port Arthur and was a lifelong resident of the area.  Robert graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1957.  He was a veteran of the United States National Guard.  Robert was a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of the Cosmopolitan Lodge #872, in Port Arthur. He retired from Huntsman Corporation after 38 years of service.  Robert also held memberships with several car clubs.  He enjoyed “piddling” in his shop and showing his award winning hot rods, the “36” and the “Vette”.  He was known for his willingness to help others and always had the right tool for the occasion. 

 Robert is survived by his loving wife, Tommie Ann Hays of 48 years. He is also survived by his sons and their families; Robert “Robbie” Penman Hays II, Janet Fuller and granddaughter, Lauren Renee Hays, all of Flower Mound; and Mark Allen Hays, Killey Cannon and her children, Brenden and Brooke Cannon, all of Nederland.  Robert was a man who loved his family, friends, and grand-dogs.

A special thanks to Renal Ventures on Dryden Rd. in Port Arthur and the ICU staff of Mid Jefferson Extended Care Hospital for Robert’s special care and personal touch during his stay.

A gathering of Mr. Hays’ family and friends will be from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m., Monday, November 25, 2013, at Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. His funeral service will be 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 26, 2013, at Broussard’s, with interment to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Groves.

Memorial contributions may be made to Proctor Baptist Church General Fund, 4401 Jimmy Johnson Boulevard, Port Arthur, Texas 77642 or a charity of your choice.