Joseph "Gabby" Guy Hayes Sr.

Joseph “Gabby” Guy Hayes Sr., 85, of Rowlesburg, WV, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at his home. He was born on November 4, 1938 in Fairmont, son of the late Samuel Chester Hayes Sr. and Opal Lena (Abel) Hayes.

Joseph was a United States Navy veteran, and a lifetime member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles #2391, where he was also a past president. He worked for the former Greenbrier Aggregates, as a stock truck driver. Joseph was Santa Claus to the residents of Kingwood Healthcare Center and Hopemont Hospital, Walmart, Morgantown Mall, and for home visits. He brought the joy and hope of Christmas to the lives of many children and adults. He was also an avid gun enthusiast, enjoyed making crafts, and “wheelin and dealin”. Joseph loved his wife, children and grandchildren dearly, and he will be greatly missed.

Joseph is survived by his wife of 63 years, Betty Joyce (Masters) Hayes; a son, Joseph Guy Hayes Jr. (Mary Riley), of Kingwood; a daughter, Lisa Dawn Sanders (Gale), of Rowlesburg; three grandchildren, David Calhoun (KD), of Morgantown, Kaleena Sanders, of Rowlesburg, Skyler Sanders, of Rowlesburg; two great grandchildren, Austin Calhoun, Clayton Calhoun.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by three brothers, David Hayes, Samuel Hayes Jr., Richard Hayes; two sisters, Rebecca Hasson, Doris Williams.

In honor of his wishes, cremation services will be accorded by the Kingwood Funeral Home and Cremation, 295 S. Price Street, Kingwood, WV 26537. Online condolences and sympathy gifts can be at www.kingwoodfuneralhomewv.com. Kingwood Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hayes family.

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