Herbert Darrel Hayes

Darrel was born on March 7, 1939, in Abilene, Texas, to Elizabeth Fletcher Hayes and Harry Howard Hayes.

The family moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, where he graduated from W. B. Ray High School in 1957. Darrel then earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Baylor University.

On December 19, 1959, Darrel married Margot Annette Harris, and they shared 66 years of marriage, devoted to one another and to their children.

After graduation, Darrel proudly served his country in the United States Navy, receiving his commission through Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. In 1962, Ensign Hayes was transferred to Coronado, California, for further training before being assigned to USS Ticonderoga (CV-14). His first position was Assistant Division Officer in the Gunnery Department. LTJG Hayes was honorably discharged in 1965 from Concord Naval Weapons Station.

Following his military service, Darrel and Margot raised their children in Corpus Christi, where he built a successful career in the insurance industry as co-owner of Hayes Insurance Agency alongside his father. After retiring in 1999, he and Margot moved to the Dallas, Texas, area before ultimately settling in Acworth, Georgia.

Darrel enjoyed staying current with technology, following football—especially the Dallas Cowboys—and spending time with loved ones (including many cherished dogs). He was known for his integrity, quiet strength, and steady presence.

Preceded in death by his parents, Darrel is fondly remembered by his beloved wife, Margot; daughters Suzanne Hayes Humann (Walt) and Charlotte Hayes Malone (John); and his four grandchildren, Walter John Humann, Jr. (Aimee), Katherine Marie Humann, Hailey Hayes Humann, and Jennifer Elizabeth Humann.

Darrel will be laid to rest with military honors on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Darrel’s name to your local animal rescue organization.