Gary Gene Hayes

Gary Gene Hayes, of Anderson, stepped gently into Heaven after a long and courageous battle with cancer on February 1, 2025. Gary was born December 13, 1934, in Elwood, IN, to Gerald Francis Hayes and Evelyn Mae Collier Hayes.

He attended Elwood Community Schools and Ball State University.

Gary was employed as a toolmaker at General Motors, and retired in 1996 after 42 years of employment.

He loved to travel the United States, attend church, and spend time with his family. Gary was one of the founding members of the Madison County Tea Party, member of the NRA, and the UAW.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; sons, Terry Hayes and Steve Hayes (Jeri); daughter, Kim (Charles) Habekost; bonus daughter and sons, Noxie (Curt) Byrd, Mike (Teresa) Poe, John (Leeann) Poe, and Kevin (Darlene Davis) Poe; sister, Sue Shetterly; and long friend of 83 years, Ronald Cole. Gary is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; son, Russell Hayes; bonus daughters, Cecelia Fay Frye and Jayne McCord; brothers, Danny Hayes, David Hayes, and Jeffery Hayes; sisters, Sandra Sprankle and Theresa Cook.

The family would like to thank the staff, his special nurse, Arial, and Chaplain Ken of Gentiva for their care, love, and support during this last phase of Gary's journey.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, at Loose Funeral Homes & Crematory.

Services will follow visitation at 1:00 pm at the funeral home with Rev. Gary Marcum officiating.