Stephanie "Stevie" HAYES

NEWPORT NEWS - Stevie Hayes of Newport News, died peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2010, at her home after a short illness.
Born in Newport News, Stevie was a graduate of Newport News High School, class of 1962. She left Newport News to attend nursing school at the University of Virginia, but returned home to graduate with a degree in accounting from Christopher Newport College.
Stevie had a long and distinguished career as an accountant. Her career began when she passed the CPA exam in April 1984. In 1987, she started her own accounting practice, where she had a diverse customer base, all of whom thought of her not only as their advisor, but a friend as well. As a leader in her profession, she served on the Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants Ethics Committee from 1995 to 2000, acting in the capacity of Chairman for the last two years. When she had her own practice, realizing that there were times when she needed a network to work through problems, she was a founding member of CPA Affiliates, which was an organization of CPAs from across the State of Virginia, which continues to exist today. Not only did they sponsor continuing professional education with well-known and respected leaders in accounting, usually at a resort, they always managed to stay an extra day or two, so they could network (or party), as you will. While a member of CPA Affiliates, she developed very close relationships, which she continued to nurture throughout her career.
In 2001, she merged her practice into a regional CPA firm, where she continued to serve her clients. With her current employer, Witt Mares, she had just decided to work on a part-time status as she dreamed of retirement within a year or two. Currently, she served on the Board of Directors of Sarah Bonwell Hudgins Foundation.
Stevie had an independent sense of style, was a loyal friend and had a great sense of humor. It had been said that you always knew when Stevie was in the room. She loved to travel, with a particular love for the water, was an avid decorator, and loved to read, which added richness to her life whether she was on a beach or at home on the sofa looking out at the river.
Stevie was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Jennette Walker Spradlin, who lived in Stuart Gardens and eventually moved to Maxwell Gardens, with all of their friends.
Stevie is survived by three sons, Greg Hayes, Scott Hayes, and Michael Hayes and wife, Tammy, all of Newport News. In addition to her sons, she is survived by four grandchildren; Corey and Payton Hayes, Lavonne and Robert Hayes; as well as one great-grandchild, Christian Dickerson. Having been an only child, she is also survived by some very 'special' cousins.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30, 2010, at Warwick River Mennonite Church, with the family receiving friends afterwards until 5 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, 11835 Canon Blvd., Suite A-102, Newport News, VA 23606.
Any flower should be delivered to the church.
The family would like to especially thank Sherry Jenkins, The Forbes Family, John and Diane Smith and Jason Kriner, who have been a great help throughout Stevie's illness.
Peninsula Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.