Everett Hayes

Everett James Hayes, 89, of Athens, TN passed away suddenly Friday, December 8, 2023. He was born July 2, 1934 in DeKalb, Illinois to Orlando and Blanche (Richardson) Hayes.

In his younger days, he worked for DeKalb Agriculture (seed corn). Later he became a printing press operator for various businesses in DeKalb, Rochelle, Rockford, IL and Madison, WI. While living in Wisconsin, he changed his occupation and became a tree trimmer working not only in Wisconsin, but also in California. While working for the IBEW union in California, he performed many duties, lastly working as a yard man for PG&E.

Everett and several of his brothers enjoyed their motorcycles and obstacle racing. He had a great love for the outdoors and nature. He enjoyed camping, canoeing, whitewater kayaking and taking road trips throughout this country and photographing many of the sites. Upon retirement, he moved to Las Vegas and bought a powered parachute that he loved flying. He loved going to garage sales and second hand stores.

He is survived by his children, Debra Otto of Belvidere, IL; Eugene Hayes of Athens, TN and Tamara (Kevin) Behling of Poplar Grove, IL. Grandchildren Jason (Carrie) Otto of Belvidere, IL; Kami (Michael) Espinoza of Athens, TN; Hannah Potter of St. Lous, MO and Riley Potter of Fort Riley, KS. Great grandchildren Isabella, Mia and Sophia Espinoza of Athens, TN. Also, former wife and friend, Luana Snyder of Belvidere, IL and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers John, Albert, Roy, Vernon "Bud", Richard, Herbert and sister, Doris Dolan.

A Memorial service will be held Sunday, January 7, 2024 at 4 PM ET at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Decatur, TN and can be viewed on Zoom.

You are encouraged to share a memory of Everett and/or your personal condolences with his family by visiting his memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens is honored to assist his family with these arrangements.