Friends, family celebrate life of Hayward’s Pit Bar B Que founder Hayward Spears Sr.


It is only fitting that Hayward Spears Sr.'s family and friends said their goodbyes Saturday to the barbecue baron over none other than BBQ.

Originally from Arkansas, he started his eponymous restaurant in 1972 at 95th Street and Antioch Road in Overland Park.

Spears, who was known for his warm hospitality, died Oct. 2 at the age of 88.

"There are lots of great memories with Hayward just coming up to your table while you were at his restaurant," said Reilly Sweeney, manager of Hayward's Pit Bar…

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