Herbert Ray Hayslett

He was born on April 18, 1941, in Rossville, Tennessee. Herbert was the ninth of ten children born to Early Norman and Mattie Lue (nee Dickens) Hayslett. Mattie Lue was better known as Mama Lue. Herbert’s parents, seven siblings, grandson and great-granddaughter preceded him in death.

Herbert accepted Christ at an early age. He was baptized at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Tennessee. After moving to Kansas City, he became a long-time member at St. Stephens Baptist Church, under the late Pastor John W. Williams. Herbert later joined Mt. Vernon Missionary Baptist Church, under the pastorage of the late Rev. Emanuel A. Johnson and then under Pastor Donald W. Givens. He was a devoted member of Mt. Vernon until his health failed and served as President of the Male Chorus.

Herbert was educated in the Kansas City, Missouri School District, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1960.

Herbert married Tommie D. Hudson in 1962, and to that union three sons were born  Carl, Eric and Kevin.

Herbert held several jobs while raising his family, but his greatest accomplishment was being hired by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department in 1971. He was a proud patrolman, worked in the Vice Unit, and lastly, drove the paddy wagon. He was known as “Officer Friendly” and “Big Herb.” “Officer Friendly” retired after 27 years and six months of loyal service.

Herbert is survived by: Tommie D. Haylett, spouse; three sons, Carl A. Haylett, Sr. (Wynetta) of Raytown, MO, Eric D. Hayslett (Elena) of San Jose, CA, and Kevin Hayslett of Cameron, MO; two brothers, Charles A. Hayslett and Walter E. Hayslett, both of Kansas City, MO; matriarch sister-in-law Irene Hayslett; six grandchildren, Carl A. Hayslett, Jr. (Jovana) of Winter Garden, CA, TaQwan, DraQuera, Dravin, DraQyia and Kamathi, all of Kansas City, MO; ten great-grandchildren; one great great-grandchild, due in August 2025; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.