Fairwell for now, two-time YMCA President retires
JACKSON, Tenn.-After decades of service to west Tennessee’s youth, dozens say farewell to a man many call mentor, Edwin Hays. “I don’t deserve a lot of the nice things that are said about me.I do my best, it’s all in the hands of the Lord,” said Hays. Now retired, former president & CEO of Jackson Family YMCA, Hays first joined the organization as a child. He said he learned to swim at a YMCA in South Georgia. More than 50 years ago. He said he learned life lessons and how to stay afloat, “This has been my mission in life, which is to do what I can to help my community,” said Hays. Kevin Hicks met Hays years ago. Their friendship influenced him well into adulthood.” Mr Hays has always been that foundation that has always given me solid advice, some I welcome and some I didn’t,” said Hicks. Many of those at the retirement ceremony said he will continue to serve the nonprofit. “I’m not saying farewell, I said ‘I’ll see you later’ ’cause I know you’re coming over for dinner or I’m coming over for dinner,” said Hays. “He’s not going anywhere. He’s always going to accessible for the Y,” said Esther Milam, a 26 year YMCA volunteer. Hays said he looks forward to spending more time with his family. He and his wife hold summer camps for their 12 grandchildren each year. “Gram Camp” is modeled after summer programs offered by the YMCA. The organization named Sheronda Green interim President & C.E.O.
