Gary D. Hayes

Gary Dean Hayes, 80, of Lakewood, IL, passed away at home on Monday morning, April 20, 2026.

Gary was born on December 12, 1945, in Jefferson County, IL, the son of Elijah Wilson and Reba (Connelly) Hayes. Gary grew up in Mt. Vernon, IL, before joining the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Gary worked as a self-employed drywall contractor in Mt. Vernon and surrounding areas. Gary loved horses and all animals, and he loved watching westerns. He was a member of the Mt. Vernon Gun and Sportsman Club until 2009, when he moved to Lakewood, IL, to be closer to family.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Shannon (Hayes) Landreth of Greenwood, IN; son, Brandon (wife, Kerri) Hayes of Lakewood, IL; the mother of his children (and his life-long friend), Betty J. (Schmidtke) Hayes; sister, Loretta (Hayes) (husband, Jim) Corrona of Fairfield, IL; and five grandchildren, Morgan Blumeyer, Hunter Hayes, Mackenzie Hayes, Samuel Landreth, and Alex Landreth.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Dan Hayes, Jack Hayes, Mack Hayes and Don Hayes; and sister, Mona (Hayes) Gray.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be given to The Children’s TherAplay Foundation, Inc, and mailed to Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, 415 North Broadway, Shelbyville, IL 62565.