James B. Hayes

He grew up in Glenarm, Raymond, and Springfield, IL where he graduated from Lanphier High School in 1971. Jim enjoyed playing basketball, loved sports cars and dancing. He began working for the United States Postal Service in Springfield, and he eventually became the Postmaster of Chatham, IL.

“Today. Tomorrow. Always.” Jim met the love of his life, Joyce, and their lives were forever blessed together. They were married on September 29, 1979 and celebrated 37 years of joyful, dedicated and loving marriage. Many friends and family enjoyed festive, abundant, and fun times at their home during the holidays and special occasions. They shared the greatest love.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce (Bruckner), his parents, and his brother-in-law Jack Gammon. He is survived by his son Christopher, who he loved selflessly. He is also survived by his brother Albert (wife Annie) Herbert, his brother-in-law Larry (wife Shirley), his sister-in-law Eileen Gammon and his many nieces and nephews who will miss and love him dearly.

Jim loved to travel with his family and friends. The family especially enjoyed their overseas adventures to the countries of their forefathers and always loved any trip to the beach. He loved to play golf and softball, loved everything about basketball (even built an indoor court attached to his home), and especially loved sports cars. He had many great and lifetime friends. He was the greatest support in time of need to many people throughout his life. A true giver.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00am on Friday July 1, 2022 at Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 Koke Mill Road in Springfield, IL. The family will meet friends from 9:00am until the time of service Friday at Bisch West. A graveside service will be held at 12:30pm on Friday at Highland City Cemetery in Highland, Illinois. Memorial contributions may be made to the Springfield Memorial Foundation for the cancer patient assistance fund: memorial.health/foundations/springfield-memorial-foundation/giving scroll down to make a donation and under designation choose cancer patient assistance. Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com.