John William Hayes

John William Hayes

August 3, 1947 - February 22,2026

John William Hayes, age 78, of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026.

John proudly served his country in the United States Army and was especially fond of his time stationed in Alaska, a place he loved and often spoke about with pride. His military service reflected the strength, dedication, and quiet resilience that marked his entire life.

By trade, John was a dairy farmer, and farming was truly his life's work. He loved farming from an early age and devoted many years to working the land.

The farm was not just where he worked - it was where he built his home and raised his family. His strong hands and steady presence provided for those he loved, and his work ethic was unmatched.

Outside of farming, John had a deep love for music.

He played guitar in many bands over the years, sharing his talent and passion with others. Music brought him joy, just as farming did. He was a strong man, loving and dependable son, loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend, and someone whose quiet strength left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He is survived by his sons, Erin Hayes (Janice), Josh Hayes, and Cody Hayes; his daughter, Keri Conway Trotter (Chris); his sisters, Hazel Allen and Helen Sipe; his grandchildren, Brandon Conway, Sean Conway, Emily Conway, and Taylin Hayes; and his great-grandsons, Oakland and Asher.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hairle Hayes and Lucille Hayes; his sisters, Sheila Dunn, Kay Cronan, and Edna Geren; and his brother, Bo Hayes.

John's legacy lives on in the family he loved and the music he played. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

John's family will receive friends at the "Ridge Chapel" of Companion Funeral & Cremation Service on Sunday March 1st from 3pm until 5pm. You are invited to share a personal memory of John or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to assist the Hayes family with these arrangements.