Kathryn Hays, Iconic Soap Opera Star With Ties To Fairfield, Dead At 87

FAIRFIELD, CT — Iconic soap opera actress Kathryn Hays died last month in Fairfield. She was 87.

Known for playing the character of Kim on “As The World Turns” for 38 years, Hays had a long career in television, including her role as Gem in the "Star Trek" episode “The Empath.” She died March 25.

“Born in Princeton, IL and raised in the midwest, she remained a good midwestern girl — but with a layer of ‘New Yorker’ added on over the years,” according to her obituary. “Think Donna Reed in ‘It's A Wonderful Life,’ with a bit of Bette Davis thrown in for good measure. Her family and friends knew her as a source of love and laughter.”

Hays’ longtime co-star Don Hastings, who played Bob Hughes on “One Life To Live,” said in a statement quoted in the New York Post that he and Hays had a close relationship and that she was dedicated to her craft.

“This is a huge loss to all who knew her,” Hastings said in the Post.

Hays had guest roles on more than 40 classic television shows and appeared on Broadway in “Ladybug, Ladybug,” “The Irregular Verb To Love” and “Hot September.”

Hays was also a person who strongly valued her family.

“She worked hard to raise and educate her daughter, and to enrich the lives of her grandchildren,” her obituary said. “She loved music, her church and was nuts about dogs.”

Those who wish to honor Hays’ memory are invited to give to the Greater Bridgeport Symphony; the First Church of Christ, Scientist in Westport; or a dog rescue organization of the donor’s choice. Private memorial services will be held following cremation.

To sign Hays’ online guest register, visit www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com.