James C. Hayes

James Charley HayesJune 22, 1937 - April 22, 2020Jimmy (James) Hayes was truly a jack of all trades. Raised on a farm in Hartwell, West Virginia, he knew the importance of hard work. And, with his friendly outgoing demeanor, he never met a stranger.After serving in the U.S. Army, he worked in the mines of West Virginia, was a Jr. Engineer for the Celanese Corporation, and spent the majority of his career in sales, repair, and maintenance. Because Jimmy placed family above all else, he moved his wife and son from New Jersey back to West Virginia, to take care of his parents in their later years. Then, in 2003, he and Irene moved to Oklahoma. There, he spent the remainder of his time working, gardening, and surrounded by his friends and family.Once you met Jimmy, you knew he was an amazing story-teller, could build or fix anything, and had the most compassionate soul - willing to help anyone in need. He loved old westerns, church hymns, and anything by Marty Robbins. Above all else, he was a great husband, father, and Papa. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Barbara Hayes, and his brothers Richard, Robert, and Thomas. He is survived in life by his sisters, Louis and Helen, his loving wife Irene, his son Joseph, his daughter of the heart Rebekah, and his grandchildren, David, Gabby, Shelbi, Sallie, and Sylvia.He has earned both his rest and his wings. His memorial service will be held at Smith & Kernke Funeral Home on June 13th at 2 PM. 1426 N. May Ave Oklahoma City, OK, 73134.