Richard Otis "Rick" Hayes

Richard “Rick” Otis Hayes, 73, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Parkview Hospital. Though he left this world quietly, his life was anything but — filled with love, laughter, and a light that touched countless people.

Rick was born on April 7, 1952, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to Andrew Jack Hayes and Lea Nell Hollingsworth Hayes. On February 9, 1974, he married the love of his life, Judith A. Stewart. Together they built a beautiful family and a marriage of 51 years, filled with laughter, devotion, and unwavering support. Rick is survived by Judy; their two sons, Tobias (Jessica) Hayes and Christopher (Mindy) Hayes; and the grandchildren who were the light of his life, Alexys, Allysia, Anthony, Damion, Adyson, Calvin, Sophia, and Sloane; along with one great-granddaughter, Abilene; and honorary daughter, Alexandria Erickson. He is also survived by his brothers, Douglas (Rhonda) Hayes of Fort Wayne and Andrew Jack (Carole) Hayes of Terre Haute; his sisters, Debra (Tom) Sears of West Terre Haute and Shelley (Brad) Gray of Terre Haute; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Nancy Hayes and Judi Stroot.

Rick graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1972–1976 in Nea Makri, Greece. His deep belief in the power of free speech and community access led him to a career in Public, Education, and Government access television, where he built lifelong friendships and left an indelible mark. He was an active member and President of the National Board for the Alliance for Community Media and also served with the Central States Alliance for Community Media.

After his years in broadcasting, Rick began a second career at the VA Hospital in Fort Wayne, where he continued to serve others with kindness and compassion. Even in retirement, he never stopped giving, working part time at the Allen County Public Library—a place he adored and shared often with his grandchildren.

More than his career or accomplishments, Rick will be remembered for his love—for his family, for his friends, for his community, and for life itself. He never missed a birthday, special event, or milestone. He welcomed everyone as family, regardless of DNA, and his grandchildren knew him simply as “Grandpa” or “Papou,” their best friend and biggest fan. He had a way of making every person feel seen, valued, and loved.

Rick was a bright, colorful soul whose presence could fill any room. He had a childlike wonder about the world, a deep appreciation for music, pop culture, and storytelling, and he lived his life in full, vibrant Technicolor. His laughter, encouragement, and unwavering positivity will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A celebration of Rick’s life will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the American Legion Post 47, 601 Reed Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana, from 4 pm to 7 pm with a short memorial service and military rites at 4:30 pm. In honor of Rick’s vibrant spirit, the family requests attendees wear tie-dye or bright colors to celebrate the shining light he was.

Rick’s life was one filled with love, friendship, service, and joy. Though our hearts are heavy, we will continue to carry his light, his laughter, and his love in all that we do.