Athel Wayne Kays, age 79, of Sulphur Springs, Texas passed away on January 6, 2026.  He was born in Denton, Texas October 14, 1946 to George Athel Kays and Nancy Katherine "Kate" Kays.

He was raised in Aubrey, Texas and graduated from Denton High School in May, 1966.  He was drafted into the United States Army in November of 1966 and served in Vietnam.

After his military service, Wayne returned to his love of rodeo, horses, and cattle.  He was a cowboy through and through.  He managed and worked on ranches for many years in Denton County.  He worked for Jones Livestock Auction in Sulphur Springs and at the time of his death, he was a beloved employee of Sulphur Springs Livestock Auction.    He worked up to, and including, the day of his sudden death.

He is remembered as a loving Dad, Grandad, and Great Grandad.  He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.  His favorite role in life was being PawPaw, most recently to his new great grandson, Theo.   The Sulphur Springs Livestock Auction team was his second family.  Wayne was known for his extensive knowledge of cattle, reliability, and his strong work ethic.  He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Wayne is survived by his daughter Cheryl Kays Gaston of Sanger, TX and his son Marty Lee Kays of Austin, three grandchildren: Katrina Gaston, and Billy Gaston of Denton, TX and Ashleigh Gaston of Sanger, TX, and one great grandson, Theodore James Gaston.  He is also survived by sisters Lanessia King and Bobbie Ellis of Paris, TX, Charlotte Maddox of Denton, TX and one brother, David Kays and wife Jana of Bagota, TX.

He was preceded in death by his parents, G. A. and Kate Kays, daughter Dana Kays Ross, and sister, Peggy Chapman.