Eyvind Eugene Hayes

Eyvind Eugene Hayes, 86, passed away after a long illness on February 21, 2019 surrounded by family in his home. 

He was born on November 22, 1932 in Sand Springs, KY to the late Eugene and Bessie Price Hayes. His lifelong occupation was farming and like many farmers, he was altruistic in nature, willing to lend a helping hand whenever the need arose. He most enjoyed raising and working his horses and mules, but had a way with all of his animals.  Eyvind was habitually a tireless worker, often working from dawn until dusk day after day.  Friends and family tell of him standing on his wagon at the end of the day dancing, while those working with him could think of nothing but finding rest.  When Eyvind took a break from the farm, he enjoyed hunting, woodworking and most importantly attending the Sand Springs First Church of Jesus Christ, where he was a devoted member. 

Notorious for his storytelling and keen memory, Eyvind managed to retrieve each story at just the right time, relating it to the conversation at hand while providing a good dose of laughter.  He was a man of integrity and could most simply be described as consistent. You always knew what you were going to get with Eyvind: an honest, level headed response in all situations.  Throughout his life, Eyvind tackled difficulties with dignity and without complaint; even in his illness he focused on the next person, regularly inquiring how others were doing. 

He was devoted throughout his life to his wife of 60 years, Alma Ruth Kirby Hayes, who passed away in 2013.  He is survived by: six children, Brenda Hayes, Gary (Jeanne) Hayes, Larry Hayes, Regina Goforth, Jeff (Morrissa) Hayes and Janis (Johnny) Loudermilk, all of Mt. Vernon; one brother, Floyd (Lena) Hayes; six grandchildren, Jeffery Shannon (Lauren) Hayes, Eric Hayes, Ashley Hayes, Rachel Hayes, Jordan Carpenter, and Joshua Goforth; two great grandchildren, Dustin and Braylon; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors. 

Besides his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by: three children, Mary Owens, Ottis Hayes and Lois Cummins; siblings, Elizabeth Owens, Geneva Hayes (infant), Beatrice Hensley, Edna Miller, Oma Mullins, and Bill Hayes; one grandchild, Brandon Cummins; and one great grandchild Ainsley Kathryn Hayes. 

The visitation and funeral will be held at the Marvin E Owens Home for Funerals.  The visitation will take place Saturday, February 23, 2019, from 6 to 9 p.m.  Funeral Services will be conducted on Sunday, February 24, 2019, at 2pm with Brother Wendell Martin and Brother Joe French officiating.  Burial will follow in the Tom Stevens Cemetery at Sand Springs.  

Expressions of sympathy can be made in the form of contributions to the First Church of Jesus Christ in care of Wendell Martin, 3124 Three Links Road, Mount Vernon, KY 40456 or Hospice Care Plus, 208 Kidd Drive, Berea, KY 40403.

Condolences can be made to the family at www.marvineowensfuneralhome.com