Joann Wells Decker Hays, 95, of Terre Haute passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025.  She was born November 13, 1929, daughter of Joseph and Helen (Bays) Decker.  Joann was a member of the Maryland Community Church for over 50 years.  She was very involved and dedicated to the Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association Auxiliary for more than 50 years, serving as State President and Chaplain for several terms.  She was the coordinator for the Miss Flame pageant on the state level and was a founding member of the Honey Creek Volunteer Fire Department.  Joann was the recipient of several awards including the Lois Bose award and the Mirium Schaekel award.  She enjoyed crocheting and taught her grandchildren the art.  Joann was a local caterer for over 40 years and made beautiful wedding cakes.  She and her husband Robert were married for 73 years prior to his passing on August 10, 2019.  Joann loved being with her family and especially the grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter Diane Held, grandchildren Robert Held (Jo Ann), Michael Held, Dustin Held (Amanda), Nicholas Held (Stacey), Colby Held (Ayricka), and Stephen Held (Sierra); great grandchildren Ellie Held, Matthew Held, Willow Held, Mia Held, Piper Held, Alyssa Held, Josh Held, Sayler Held, Marley Held, Stephen Held, Tayla Bell, and great great-grandson Ezryn Bell, brother Bob Decker (Kathleen) ad sister Sue Decker, as well as many nieces nephews and other extended family and friends.

Joann was preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert Hays, granddaughter Jennifer Held and brother Bill Decker.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, February 12, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Maryland Community Church.  Service will begin at the church at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Scot Longyear officiating. Burial will follow at Grandview Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers Maryland Church Youth program or the Honey Creek Volunteer Fire Dept.