Esther Vermelle Hayes Kodash, 75, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on August 4, 2026. Born March 9, 1951, Esther’s life was marked by steady devotion—to her faith, her family, and the quiet gifts of care she shared with others.
Esther was the daughter of the late George Robert and Belva Mae Hayes. She was also preceded in death by her son, Michael L Riffey; her brothers, Cliff Hayes and Jim Hayes; and her sisters, Mildred Tidwell and Sandra Blythe.
She is survived by her son, Lee Riffey; three grandchildren, Bridget, Jeremy, and Amanda; and eight great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Mary McLindin, Shirley Wiley, Frances Wright, and Marlene Gause; her brothers, Olin Hayes and George R Hayes Jr; and many nieces and nephews.
Esther retired from the retail management business, bringing to her work the same reliability and attentiveness that shaped so much of her life. Away from work, she found joy in crafting and arranging flowers—hands-on pursuits that reflected her patient spirit and her eye for simple beauty.
A member of Bread of Life Church of God on Platts Springs Road, Esther’s faith remained a steady presence. She loved her family deeply, and her earthly absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew and cherished her.
Visitation will be held on August 7, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm with funeral Service to follow at 3:00 pm at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - Lexington, 503 N Lake Dr., Lexington, SC 29072. Burial will follow at Lexington Memorial Cemetery.
