James Larry Hayes

During a particularly busy week during June of 1963, at the age of 21, Larry graduated from Birmingham-Southern University with a Bachelor of Science in Physics, moved to Huntsville, Alabama, and married the love of his life: Carolyn Elaine Layman. He continued his education with graduate studies in physics from 1963-1966 at the University of Alabama at Huntsville before beginning his remarkable professional career.

Over the next six decades, Larry and Carolyn built a loving home centered on faith, family, and steadfast commitment. Together, they welcomed three children, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren to the world.

Larry spent much of his career as an engineer with the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), where he served as Program Director for numerous advanced technical radar and optical programs. He later continued his work with the development of ballistic missile defense systems, managing multi-million dollar government programs and reporting directly to senior Army leaders, before founding his own consulting company after retiring. Larry was deeply respected for his intelligence, precision, and dedication to his work.

In 1990, Larry earned the Superior Civilian Service Award for his outstanding leadership, skill, and dedication to the U.S. Army Strategic Defense Command. Additionally, from 1982-84, he served as the Northern Division Lt. Governor of Toastmasters International.

Though a quiet observer by nature, Larry loved deeply and faithfully. His strong character, steady presence, and fierce love of his family set an aspirational example for those who knew him. He was rarely seen without his trademark Alabama baseball cap and could almost always be found behind a video camera, carefully recording family gatherings and precious moments.

Larry, a lifelong learner, was an avid reader with an endless curiosity about the world. As a self-taught speed-reader, he consumed books and articles on countless subjects, especially history and biblical studies. Led by Carolyn’s faithful example, Larry was baptized into the Church of Christ and was a devoted and involved member for over four decades, known for leading detailed and thoughtful Bible studies.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn Hayes; his children, Ruthie Sommers (David), Marland Hayes (Denise), and Janell Hustead (Bill); his

grandchildren, Tyler Sommers (Mary), Ginny Hayes Heath (Tyler), Adam Sommers (Lee-Ann), Jessica Sommers Concha (Andrew), Marissa Hayes, Brett Hustead (Lindsay), Abbie Hustead, Cindy Hayes, and Annie Hustead; and his great-grandchildren, Colton Concha and James Sommers. Larry is dearly loved by numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded by his brother, George Hayes, and his parents, Virginia Nell Reynolds-Hayes and James Marland Hayes.

Larry’s life was marked by quiet faithfulness, intellectual curiosity, humility, and enduring love for his family. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all those who knew him.

Please consider making donations in the memory of Mr. Hayes to The Childhaven Child Home.

https://www.childhaven.com/