Hershel G. Hayes

Hershel G. Hayes Sr., age 90, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, December 20, 2014. He was born near Louisa, Kentucky on June 7, 1924. He was a loving, thoughtful and proud husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Hershel was preceded in death by his loving wife of 53 years, Mildred "Millie" Hayes; parents, Zeal and Lola Hayes; brothers, Thomas, Cuthbert and Edwin; sisters, Pansy Estep, Opal Gilpen and Jewell Daniels. He is survived by his children, Sandra (Neal) Downard, Sharon Fala, Hershel "Jerry" (Pam) Hayes Jr., Shirley (Graydon) Harvey; 12 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and many nephews, nieces and friends. Hershel proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He came to Columbus from Kentucky when he was 15 and worked for Darby Dan Farms where he worked as a farm hand and tended to the horses. He moved to Springfield and became a book binder. Hershel retired after 43 years and returned to his "country boy" roots when he operated a business plowing gardens. He continued working as he operated a tree stump removal business. Friends and family will miss hearing his jokes and stories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Nationwide Children's Hospital. Family will welcome friends 4:30-8pm Monday, December 22, 2013 at Schoedinger Hilltop Chapel, 3030 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43204; Funeral Service 10am Tuesday at Cypress Wesleyan Church, 377 Alton-Darby Rd., Galloway, OH 43119; Rev. Dale George, officiating; entombment to follow at Sunset Cemetery. Visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories or extend condolences.