Don Hayes

Don Harmon Hayes, of Waxahachie passed away at home on Wednesday December 13, 2023. Don succumbed to heart failure and other medical problems after being placed on hospice. His family was at his side daily throughout his illness.

Don was born to the late Elmer and Lottie Hayes in Midlothian, on June 6, 1934. Don married Ruby June Stroope in November of 1953. They lived most of their lives in Waxahachie.

Don was affectionately called Dad, Daddy, and Papa. Don was a beekeeper for many years.  He also worked at Flexsteel, Sunland, and eventually with his brothers at Hayes Electric. Don was a member of the local Masonic Lodge for many years. Don loved fishing with friends, visiting with family, and gardening. He loved to share the vegetables he grew with friends, family, and the local food bank. Most people loved Don’s homemade pickles.

Don is survived by his children: Lori Peebles, Susan Williams, Joanna and Butch Campbell, Jay and Michelle Hayes, and Donna and John Willis.

His grandchildren: Mark, Shana, Sandie, and Drew Peebles, Sarah and Michael Williams, Michelle and Cassie Campbell, Hanna and Taylor Hayes, Cole and Kelsey Willis, and Chris Hayes.

His great grandchildren: Meghan, Cooper, Meredith, Alisha, Clayton, Bobbie Grace, Riggs, Abel, Eleanor, Marlee, Natalie, Brooklyn, Kylie, Chloe, Isabelle, Dennis, Harper, Avery, Kylee, Brice, Kayden, Kenzie, Colby, Conner, and Carter.

He is also survived by one brother-in-Law, Jack Stroope, and many nieces and nephews from the Hayes and Stroope families.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Ruby June, his oldest son John Michael, grandchildren Nicole, Amanda, and Aaron, sons in law Jerry Peebles and Walter Williams, brothers Jack and Danny Hayes, and sisters Ellen and Linda.

Don received his last rites at home and requested no services. Don will lay in rest at Lakeview Cemetery beside his loving wife Ruby and son Michael.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The American Heart Association, The American Cancer Society, or Scottish Rite Hospital.