Childersburg, AL. - Audrey Royal Hayes, age 90, passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.
Audrey was a determined woman her entire life. When her parents said she could not marry until she graduated high school, she doubled up on her courses to finish a year early; marrying her high school sweetheart three months later, at age 17. Their love affair lasted over 70 years!
Audrey was very talented. She was a soloist in the church choir for many years. In addition to having the voice of an angel, she also produced high quality china painting, lovely crochet work and was an accomplished seamstress.
Audrey was a maternal figure and friend to many. She made lasting friendships, with family members, neighbors, co-workers, fellow walking horse enthusiasts, other campers, and members of her three-wheeling group.
Audrey had various ‘jobs’ during her life: wife, Mother, farmer, choir member, soloist, kindergarten teacher, bank teller and auditor. At each she excelled.
Audrey will be missed by those who knew her…most of all her two daughters. They will miss her council and advice, her intuition, her sense of humor, and, her ever-present acceptance and affection.
Audrey is survived by her brother, James E. Royal (Jean); two daughters, Barbara Hayes Amato (Bob), Cathy Hayes; and ten nieces and nephews, Tracy Duffee (John), Lane Hayes (Felicia), Cody Duffee (Shelby), Caleb Duffee (Savannah), KJ Duffee, Teagan Duffee, Hayes Duffee, Danelle Hayes, Dawson Hayes and Debbie Cantrell Hayes.
Audrey was preceded in death by her husband, Earl H. Hayes; and sister, Alice Louise Barnett.
A visitation for Audrey will be held Sunday, March 24, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Radney-Smith Funeral Home, 320 North Elm Avenue, Sylacauga, Alabama 35150. A graveside service will occur Monday, March 25, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Kahatchee Cemetery, 2290 Kahatchee Loop, Childersburg, AL 35044 with Bro. Joe Camp officiating.
Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/sylacauga-al/radney-smith-funeral-home/8516.
Radney-Smith Funeral Home in Sylacauga, Alabama will direct the services.
