Peter "Pete" James Hay

Peter “Pete” James Hay, age 76, of Mechanicsburg, and formerly of Mt. Bethel, died at home on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Pete was born on Friday, April 9, 1948, in East Stroudsburg to the late Paul George Hay and Virginia Sarah (Horn) Hay. 

Pete’s survivors include his wife of 49 years, Debbie Jean (Hoffman) Hay; his brother: Paul Hay and wife Veronica, of State College; and several nieces and nephews.

Pete graduated from Central Dauphin High School as part of the class of 1966. he retired from Flight Systems in Carlisle, after many years of service working as a maintenance technician. Pete was a talented mechanic that dedicated his life to fixing anything that involved an engine and tire. Pete was a well-known mechanic who had worked on many hot rods and race cars that raced at the Silver Spring Speedway, South Mountain Raceway and York Dragway. He also owned a 1953 Corvette Drag Car. After his retirement, Pete could be found selling many different kinds of mechanical parts at his flea market stand. Pete also enjoyed hunting deer and pheasants in his younger days. In conjunction to his love of hunting; he also loved to practice his aim by target shooting. Pete will be missed by his family and the many people that were fortunate enough to have known him.

Pete’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at Buhrig’s Gathering Place (next to the funeral home) on Monday, November 25, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. A graveside service and interment will immediately follow Pete’s Memorial Reception in Mechanicsburg Cemetery. Cremation was private.

Contributions in celebration of Pete’s life can be made to Speranza Animal Rescue, 1216 Brandt Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 or online at www.speranzarescue.org/donate.

Pete’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Pete’s full obituary, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.