Jerry Elwood Hayes

Jerry Elwood Hayes, 78, of Webster Road, Fredonia, NY and formerly of Coaldale, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2014 in New York. With his family by his side, Jerry went to rest in the arms of his Lord Jesus. He was born on March 2, 1936 in Coaldale to the late Rutherford B. and Edna Brown Hayes. Mr. Hayes really enjoyed his life. As a small child, Jerry attended Poca School where he learned to read and write. As a young man, he shined shoes and mowed lawns to earn enough money to go to the “picture show” which was one of his favorite activities. Some of his other hobbies were cooking and eating, but his most favorite was making airplanes. Throughout the years Jerry became an expert craftsman. He created his own pattern and fashioned functioning airplanes that were coveted by everyone blessed to receive the treasure. Mr. Hayes was loved by all he met. Jerry loved children and loved his many nieces and nephews, brothers, sisters, and family in general. After moving to New York in the mid 1980’s, Jerry was employed at the Resource Work Program and later attended the Day Hab Program. In his later years, Mr. Hayes traveled and airplane travel was one of his favorite. His most cherished trips were to “home” in Bluefield. Survivors include: His niece whom he made his home with, Pam Prince of Fredonia, NY 3 brothers: Robert Hayes and Missy of Lynchburg, VA Marlee Hayes of Pearisburg, VA Berlin Hayes and wife Dreama of Narrows, VA Sisters: Chrystal Neice and Andy of Pearisburg, VA Jo Ann Hayes of Peterstown, WV Mary Callahan and Lyn of Radford, VA Loretta Taylor of Dallas, TX Carolyn Cundiff and Joe of Green Valley, WV Virginia Collins and James of Blacksburg, VA Jeanette Hayes of Bluestone Carol Cartwright of Mt. Nebo, WV Stepmother: Lorraine Hayes of Blacksburg, VA Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, July 26, 2014 at 1:00 PM at the Cravens-Shires Funeral Home in Bluewell with family members officiating. Burial will follow at Grandview Memory Gardens in Bluefield, VA with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Friends may call on Friday from 6-8 PM at the funeral home. Online condolences will be accepted at www.cravens-shires.com Cravens-Shires Funeral Home, 3431 Coal Heritage Road (Bluewell), Bluefield, WV 24701 is serving the family.