Former Freehold Business Owner Dies at 97

Charles L. Hays, 97, of Manchester Twp., died on Friday, March 22 at home.

Hays owned and operated Freehold Motor Parts at two separate locations in Freehold for many years before retiring in 1981. Charles then went to work with his wife in their real estate company, Hays Real Estate, Freehold until his final retirement in 1989.

Hays was born in Trenton, he spent most of his life in Freehold before moving to Manchester Twp. seven years ago. He served in the Merchant Marines during WWII.

He is survived by his loving wife Lorraine; his step-daughter Elaine Graczyk of St. Louis, MO.; one sister Marjory Hays of Freehold; three step-grandchildren James Graczyk and his wife Michele; Kevin Graczyk and his wife Heather and Suzanne Banks; seven step-great grandchildren; two nieces Judith Calandrino and her husband Frank and Meridith Clayton and her husband David.

Interment will take place privately at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery, North Hanover. Arrangements by DeGraff Lakehurst Funeral Home, Lakehurst.