Patricia A. Hays, 79, of Collinsville, IL, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Dammert Care Center in Belleville, IL.

She was born January 11, 1947, in East St. Louis, IL, to the late John Eckert and Jacqueline (nee Curl) Falline.

Patricia retired from the Collinsville Unit 10 School District, where she dedicated many years as a fourth-grade teacher at Kreitner Elementary School. She was a longtime member of St. John United Church of Christ in Collinsville. Patricia enjoyed walking, gardening, yard work, and faithfully watching the St. Louis Cardinals. Above all, she cherished the time spent with her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Hays, and a brother, John Eckert.

She is survived by her loving children, Beth (Mark Tyler) Kilzer of Collinsville, IL, and Nathan (Amanda) Hays of St. Louis, MO; five grandchildren, Chelsea Kilzer, Colin Kilzer, Amelia Hays, Naomi Hays, and Winston Hays; and two brothers, Norman Falline and Steven Falline.

Memorial visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Rev. Jenn Sowell.

Memorials are suggested to St. John United Church of Christ and will be received at the visitation or may be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.