Joseph "Bay" Hayes

A life well lived leaves a legacy that can never be forgotten. Such was the life of Joseph "Bay" Hayes, whose unwavering love for his family, generous spirit, and servant's heart touched countless lives. 

Joseph "Bay" Hayes was born on March 14, 1948, in Thomasville, Georgia, to the late James E. Hayes and Mary Manning Hayes. From the very beginning, Bay was surrounded by the values of faith, family, hard work, and compassion-values that would define the remarkable man he became.

 At an early age, Bay accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, establishing the strong spiritual foundation that guided him throughout his life. Bay graduated from Douglas High School with the Class of 1966 before continuing his education at Thomas Area Technical School, where he graduated in 1969 with a diploma in Automotive Body Repair and Brick Masonry. His dedication to excellence and service continued when he answered the call of his country. In 1970, Bay was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served during the Vietnam War, receiving an Honorable Discharge for his faithful military service.

 A proud Vietnam Veteran, Bay never stopped serving others. He was a devoted member of the American Legion Post 519, where he faithfully served in various leadership roles over the years. He was also a dedicated member of the Elks Club and remained actively connected to his classmates, eventually serving as President of the Douglas High School Class of 1966. Whether serving veterans, supporting classmates, or lending his time to community organizations, Bay believed in giving back and lifting others up. 

To know Bay was to know kindness, loyalty, and generosity. He possessed a heart that was always open to those in need. If someone needed encouragement, a helping hand, sound advice, or simply someone to stand beside them, Bay was there without hesitation. He gave freely of himself, never expecting anything in return.

 More than anything else, Bay treasured his family. His greatest pride was being a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His children knew him as a loving and devoted father whose guidance, strength, and unconditional love remained constant throughout their lives. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were among his greatest joys, and he cherished every opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and create lasting memories with them. 

Within his family, Bay was often described as the rock-the steady presence who helped hold everyone together. He believed family was a blessing and made it his mission to stay connected, offer support, and remind those he loved that they were never alone. His brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family could always count on him to answer the phone, show up when needed, or offer words of wisdom and encouragement. 

Bay's warm smile, infectious sense of humor, and playful spirit made every gathering brighter. His jokes were never simply jokes-they were expressions of love, affection, and his unique way of bringing joy to those around him. He had an extraordinary ability to make people laugh, feel welcomed, and know they were valued. 

Those who knew Bay will remember him as a distinguished gentleman whose life reflected integrity, humility, compassion, and quiet strength. His legacy is not measured only by the years he lived, but by the countless lives he touched through simple acts of kindness, faithful service, and genuine love.

 Bay leaves to cherish his precious memory his three loving and devoted children: Dawn Hayes Carr (Lucious) of Thomasville, Georgia; Joseph Roderikco Hayes of Sarasota, Florida; and Ladrica Hayes of Thomasville, Georgia. 

He was the proud grandfather of Monique Smith of Bradenton, Florida; Shekevia Smith of Bradenton, Florida; Akilha Ward (Deon) of Bradenton, Florida; Tyrudai Hayes of Carrollton, Georgia; Tyler Hayes of Thomasville, Georgia; and Jojo Hayes of Sarasota, Florida. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Jackesse Hayes. 

Bay was also blessed with four great-grandchildren: Aaron, Ashton, Asiaha, and Amiyah, all of Bradenton, Florida.

 He also leaves behind his beloved sisters and brothers: Cora Hayes Baker of Thomasville, Georgia; Cheryl Crumdiy (Carl); and was preceded in death by his sister, Janie Lee Hayes, and his brothers, James Hayes Jr. and Ronny L. Hayes. 

His memory will forever be treasured by his nieces and nephews: Merrill E. Baker III (Quanda) of Richmond, Virginia; Courtenay Hall (Anthony) of Pensacola, Florida; Bridget Young (Mitchell) of Atlanta, Georgia; Tangela Hayes of Thomasville, Georgia; Terry T. Hayes (Damarus) of Atlanta, Georgia; and his nephew James Hayes III, who preceded him in death; along with a host of cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, fellow veterans, classmates, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him. 

Although our hearts grieve his absence, we rejoice in the extraordinary life he lived. Bay's legacy is one of unwavering love, selfless service, steadfast faith, and enduring strength. His life was truly a blessing to his family, his friends, his fellow veterans, and the Thomasville community.

 Today we celebrate a devoted father, a loving grandfather, a faithful brother, a loyal friend, a proud veteran, and an exceptional man. We find comfort knowing that his work here is complete, his race is won, and he now rests peacefully in the loving presence of our Heavenly Father. 

Well done, good and faithful servant. Your love lives on in each of us.