Gregory Hayes' Obituary
Gregory Hayes was born on October 26, 1953, in Tacoma, Washington, to Virginia Green (Evans) and Dave Hayes. Born with a courageous spirit, he dedicated 16 years of his life to serving in the United States military, where he exemplified discipline, resilience, and unwavering commitment. After his service, Gregory continued to dedicate himself to his family and community, working at the Social Security Administration in Washington, where he contributed many years of service before retiring.
Gregory was a loving father to Nerissa Hayes and Marquis Hayes, and a devoted husband to Raquel Hayes, whom he married in Panama. He cherished his three grandchildren: Octavia Duncan, Markel Duncan, and Lanasia Hayes. He also experienced the loss of a daughter in infancy, Sydia Hayes.
Known for his passion for cooking, electronics, and sharing good food, Gregory brought joy and warmth to everyone around him. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, dedication to family, and the many ways he made life memorable for those who knew him.
Gregory is survived by his wife, Raquel Hayes, children Marquis Hayes, and Nerissa Hayes, mother Virginia Evans, and aunt Mary Jackson (Squirt). Grandchildren, Octavia Duncan, Markel Duncan, and Lanasia Hayes, brothers, David (Ruby) Hayes, George (Rita) Hayes, Ronnie Denise Green, Patrice Taylor, Joseph Evans, Davida (Malcom) Matthews and Marcus Hayes. He also leaves a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Dave Hayes, daughter Sydia Hayes, brother Michael Green, Paul Crawford, and Curtis Hayes; sisters, Doris Hayes Clark and Delisa Hayes.
Gregory Hayes will be remembered not only for his service, but for the protection, wisdom, and unshakeable love he extended to everyone around him. His spirit continues to guide his family, especially his children, who carry forward his strength and his legacy of watching over others.
His life was a testament to courage, compassion, and the power of a father’s love — a legacy that will never fade.
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