Mr. Oliver Hayes Jr., affectionately known as “Buddy,” was born in Thomasville, Georgia, on September 12, 1931, to the late Oliver Hayes Sr. and Emma Hill-Hayes. He was the second oldest of 13 children. A veteran of the Korean Conflict Era, he served honorably in the United States Army from January 1953 through 1955. He later devoted over 40 years to a career in the lumber harvesting industry and was a member of WillowHead Missionary Baptist Church.

On May 6, 1956, Oliver Hayes Jr. was united in holy matrimony to the late Mrs. Mary F. Hayes. To this union, four children were born: John, Janice, Olivia, and Anthony.

On Aug 12, 2026, at Southern Pines Memory Care in Thomasville, GA, Mr. Hayes was called to eternal rest by our Lord and Saviour, Jesus the Christ. He is at peace now, rejoicing in his heavenly home.

Mr. Oliver Hayes Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends. Mr. Oliver Hayes leaves to treasure beloved memories Children: Deacon John Hayes (Sabrina), Albany, GA; Janice Hayes, Thomasville, GA; Olivia Kelley (Thaxter), Stockbridge, GA; Reverend Anthony V. Hayes (Karma), Perry, GA; Grandchildren: LaQuoyia R. Hayes (Ralph Ross), McDonough, GA; Kristiana Hester (Kristopher Love), Jacksonville, FL; Roderick Kelley, Stockbridge, GA; Brieana J. Hayes, Thomasville, GA; Jaelon Hayes, Albany, GA; Kameron Hayes and Kamden Hayes, Perry, GA; Great grandchildren: Kyndall Wright, Lauryn Wright, Allen Ross, Karsyn Turner, Rayven Ross.

He is also survived by his sisters, Johnnie Mae Carley and Beverly Williams, both of Thomasville, GA; Sister in-law, Annie Bell Hayes of Thomasville, GA, Brother in-law Joseph Thompson of Cairo, GA; special cousins, Tony(Pat) Duncan; special nephew Larry(Stella) Stephens.

He will also be lovingly remembered by his many adoring nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, friends, and neighbors whose lives he touched throughout the years.

Mr. Oliver Hayes Jr. was preceded in death by his beloved wife, the late Mary F. Hayes; his sisters, Patsena Fruitree, Annie Grace Brown, Virginia Adams, Mary Newkirk, Lillie Webb, Sarah Thompson, and Eris Clark; and his brothers, Earl Hayes, Charles Hayes, and Robert Hayes Sr.

Though he is no longer with us, his love, wisdom, memories, and legacy will continue to live on through the generations. His family takes comfort in knowing that his life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and his love will remain forever in their hearts.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”