Lewis Hayes

Lewis Eugene Hayes, 84, of Springfield, MO passed away peacefully Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Cox South with his family at his side. Lewis was born March 18, 1942, to Doyle and Ruby Hayes. He was preceded in death by his parents, Doyle & Ruby Hayes; his older brother LaVern; and his younger sister Lois. Lewis is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Linda Hayes; his children Carl Hayes and wife Susie, Dan Hayes and wife Julie, Cindy Hairston and husband Travis; his grandchildren Holly, Callie, Claire, Sophia, Aubrey and husband Scott, Mason, Dalton, Emma, and Ella; as well as two great grandchildren Brynn and Eli; his sister Lavetta Rhinehart, sister-in-law Henrietta Hayes and many nieces and nephews. Lewis proudly served his country in the United States Navy during Vietnam. He retired from the US Postal Service in 2011. He loved nothing more than being surrounded by his kids and grandkids. He also loved fishing with his buddies Ted Tabor, his brother LaVern, and Randy Wilson. Faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he loved his church family at Graceway Baptist Church. Services will be held Monday September 28, 2026, at Graceway Baptist Church. He will receive military honors at the VA cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Conservation Department.