James Edward “Ed” Hayes Sr. was born October 15, 1936, and passed away July 9, 2026, at the age of 89.
He lived a life defined by faith, hard work, service, and love for others. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, he faithfully served his country from 1954 to 1958, carrying the values of integrity, discipline, and dedication with him throughout his life.
Following his military service, he built a successful 30-year career with DuPont, where he served as a Production Supervisor. He earned the respect of his coworkers through his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and commitment to excellence. He believed that honest work was a blessing and took pride in every task he undertook.
His greatest joy was found in his family and his church family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose kindness and generosity touched countless lives. Always willing to lend a helping hand, he never hesitated to assist a neighbor, encourage a friend, or support someone in need. He lived by example, demonstrating compassion, humility, and servant-hearted love.
His faith was the foundation of his life. As an active member and deacon of his church, he faithfully served wherever he was needed. He especially enjoyed participating in Builders for Christ, using his skills and strong hands to help construct and improve places of worship so others could gather in faith. Serving others brought him great purpose and joy.
He also found peace and satisfaction working in his garden, where his patience and care produced both beauty and bounty. Whether tending his plants, tackling a project, or helping someone else complete theirs, he believed there was dignity in hard work and fulfillment in doing a job well.
He is survived by his wife Maxine Hayes; children, James Edward “Jimmy” Hayes Jr. (Karen), Elaine Blacksher, and David Hayes; grandchildren, Heather Kotrla, Lenzie Howell (Dan), Luke Jones (Jodi), Lesleigh Kidd (Josh), Jake Jones (Jessica), April Roberts (Jason), Jessica Worthy, and Lance Hayes; great grandchildren, Kayden Jones, Conner Kidd, Kendall Jones, Liam Hayes, Colin Kidd, Addyson Jones, Ava Worthy, Ella Roberts, Jaxson Jones, Kain Jones, Mason Howell, Whitlea Worthy, Ali Roberts, and Grayson Roberts; siblings, Farrell Flake and Rivers Hayes; sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Clements, Peggy Anthony, and Sara Francis Hayes; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Claire Hayes; mother and father-in-law, Lee and Ardella Anthony; son-in-law, Robert Blacksher Sr.; siblings, Jr Hayes, RL Hayes, Bill Hayes, and Mae Johnson; brothers-in-law, Gordon Anthony, Lee” Jr” Anthony, and Ed Clements.
Family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2026, at First Baptist Church Mauriceville, 11540 Highway 12, Orange, Texas. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at First Baptist Church Mauriceville, 11540 Highway 12, Orange, Texas. Internment to follow at Autumn Oaks Cemetery.
Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers are grandsons, great grandsons, and closest friends.
Family would like to extend a thank you to Jessi Manuel, Shawn Butler, and Allison Butler for their care, love, and support.
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