Terese Marie Hays

On Tuesday, March 28, Terese Marie Walling Hays, peacefully passed away at Resthaven in Holland, Michigan, at the age of 83. Born in Milan, Illinois, to George and Alice DePorter, Terese was the 6th of 8 children. She married Dean D. Walling in 1961, and they had five children: Ann Britten (Chris), Matthew Walling, Mark Walling (Shari), John Walling (Smitha), and Thomas Walling (Paige). Dean passed away in 1973, and Terese married James A. Hays in 1974. Upon her marriage, they became a family of seven with the addition of Jim’s children, John Hays (Bobby Anne) and Kathy Johnson.

Terese is survived by her husband, Jim, of 48 years, children, 15 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.

Terese was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Holland, where she sang in the choir. Her love for music extended to the piano, and she could play any tune by ear. She enjoyed being active and was particularly fond of the outdoors. Terese never knew a stranger, and she will be remembered for her laugh and zeal for life. Her life was truly a tribute to the Lord she loved. She helped brighten and uplift the lives of everyone she encountered.

Visitation will be 4:00-6:00 pm Tuesday, April 4 at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 East 16th Street, Holland, MI 49423. The Celebration of Life Service will be Wednesday, April 5 at 11:00 am at the First United Methodist Church of Holland, 57 West 10th Street, Holland, MI 49423, with a one-hour visitation preceding at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Resthaven of Holland and Hospice of Holland. www.langelandsterenberg.com.