Charles Thomas Kays, Jr., 73, of Oakland City, passed away Friday, Jan. 14, 2011 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Evansville.

He was born Sept. 24, 1937 in Oakland City to Charles Thomas and Mildred (Duncan) Kays. He always resided in the Oakland City area.

Charles was a member of the Forsythe United Methodist Church in Oakland City, was a farmer, a member of the United Mine Workers and worked in coal mine construction until retiring in 1986. 

Surviving are his wife, Martha Jean Kays of Oakland City; son, Paul J. (Janice) Kays of Oakland City; two sisters Jennie Stilwell and Linda Schumacher both of Oakland City; two grandchildren, Grace and William.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011 at Forsythe United Methodist Church in Oakland City with the Rev. Charles Gibson officiating. Burial will be at the Forsythe United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Friends may visit from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday at Corn-Colvin Funeral Home in Oakland City.