John Robert "Bobby" Hayes

Born in Pickens, on May 31, 1931, to Daniel Moses “Mode” Hayes, Sr., and Elizabeth “Bessie” Hayes (nee La Foy).

John graduated from Pickens High School in 1949 as the Vice-President of his graduating class. He worked at Neely’s Store in Pickens and Blue Ridge Electric before joining the United States Air Force in 1950. He married his High School sweetheart, Edna Mae Willis in 1953 and later retired from the United States Air Force in 1977 after honorably serving for 28 years. John received the Meritorious Service Medal, the civilian version of the Bronze Star, as part of his accomplishments in the military. After his retirement, he worked in the Middle East for 15 years, in Tehran, Iran, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with Daniel Construction, and Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, for ARAMCO Oil Company.

John is survived by daughters Victoria Lynn Hayes Ray of Arvada, Colorado, and Elizabeth Ann Hayes of Pickens, SC, grandchildren Jordan William Ray (Cassandra) of Arvada, Colorado, and Stewart Mackenzie Ray of Missoula, Montana; great-grandchildren Cameron William Ray and Sophia Caroline Ray of Arvada, Colorado; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his beloved wife of fifty-two years, Edna Mae Willis Hayes; four siblings: William Elbert (Tim) Hayes, Inez Hayes Hughes, Leander Hayes Dodgens, and Daniel Moses (D.M.) Hayes, Jr., all of Pickens.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 11:00 am at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 2410 Gentry Memorial Hwy, Pickens, South Carolina.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family.