Gordon Clark Hayes

Gordon Hayes, age 89, went to be with his Lord and Savior Friday, October 16, 2026. He was preceded in death by his father, James Clark Hayes; mother, Grace Gordon Hayes; son, Bill Poteete; brother-in-law, Keith Lawrence; nephew, Jahvar. He is survived by his wife, Peggy Jean Weddle-Hayes; children Kathryn (Russell) Holden, Dana (Jeff) Nelson; Deborah (Jimmy) Nelson; grandchildren Brad, Becky, Kristy, Marie, Eric, Ian, Anthony, Tricia, and Bethany; daughter-in-law, Gale Poteete; sister, Beverly Lawrence; brother, James (Venoice) Hayes; nephews and niece Steve, Jeff, Scott, Terry, and Javette; and many other extended relatives and friends.

Gordon was a kind, gentle, and thoughtful man whose love and devotion to his family made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

When Gordon married Peggy Hayes, he became an instant husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. At 55, he suddenly found himself surrounded by grandchildren, and he embraced them with remarkable patience and good humor. He even let them rappel down from the loft in his living room! Gordon was willing to do just about anything with his family — except go to the zoo, which became a running family joke.

Gordon adored Peggy and devoted himself to making her happy. When she was feeling down, his favorite suggestion was, “Let’s go to Macy’s!” He loved shopping, but most of all, he loved seeing Peggy smile.

Gordon had a curious mind and enjoyed studying history, world events, and classical literature. He loved motorcycle trips with his good friend Charlie, eating chocolate, and enjoying a good meal — always properly, with a knife and fork!

He also had a tremendous love for animals, especially his dogs, who were among the most loved and well-cared-for pets on the planet. His daily walks with them were both a responsibility and a labor of love.

Perhaps Gordon’s most endearing quality was his unfailing kindness and courtesy. Even in his final days, he found joy in life’s simplest pleasures. A glass of orange juice, root beer, or ginger ale would bring an enthusiastic compliment about how delicious it was. He had a wonderful way of appreciating the little things.

Gordon made people feel special. He was a devoted husband, a patient and loving family man, and a genuinely good human being. He didn’t need grand gestures to show his love. He demonstrated it every day through kindness, generosity, patience, and devotion.

We were blessed to have Gordon in our lives. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever appreciated for the wonderful man he was.

Per Gordon's wishes cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Humane Society of West Michigan in Gordon's honor. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.