James Saimaj Hayes Jr.

James Hayes Jr., born on March 8, 1925, was called to his heavenly home on March 31, 2020. He was the second of four children born to the union of the late Viola Redditt Hayes and James Hayes Sr. Later in life, he added a middle name of “Semaj”/”Saimaj”. James was a lifelong resident of New Orleans, Louisiana. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings: Cecile, Louis and Wilson Hayes. He was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and drafted by the United States Army at the age of 18 to fight for his country in World War II (WWII). After returning from the WWII, he attended trade school and finished as a Certified Electronic Mechanic. He was the loving father of nine children. During his marriage to Flavia Smith Hayes, they were blessed with seven children: Desiree H. Wilson (the late Abraham, Jr.); Angelica M. Hayes (Brian Firstley); Varuna H. McKendall (Alverez, Sr.); Romanza (Shirley); Ethan (Leslie); James, Sr. (Sybil) and Christopher (Patricia). James’ second marriage was to Gwendolyn Nichols Hayes. God blessed them with two sons: Jason and Jaron Hayes. After WWII, James became an ardent Civil Rights Fighter, meeting with and working together with the local and national Civil Rights Leaders. James was on Normandy Beach on D- Day of WWII fighting for freedom. He fought for Civil Rights, desiring for his family and loved ones in the United States, to receive those freedoms he risked his life for in WWII. James, a quiet hero, was heavily involved in the integration of the New Orleans Public Schools and African American citizens being granted their right to vote. These are just two accomplishments, on the long list of Civil Rights he helped gain for African Americans; civil rights which they maintain to this day. James worked several types of employment throughout his life. He stayed employed to support his family. He was self-employed, having his own T.V., radio and appliance repair shop before working for the United States Post Office. After many years of experience and an excellent work history, he retired from the U.S. Post Office as a Senior Electronic Mechanic. Although he grew up in poverty in the segregated south and struggled through racial discrimination, James was a Truth Seeker. He was a self-educator and researcher who was well-read. He had an extensive personal library covering a huge range of subjects. After researching many different religious denominations and visiting many of their churches, James worked out his own non-denominational spiritual journey. James taught himself to be an auto mechanic and to play the guitar. As a song writer and singer, James sang while playing his guitar and entertaining family with his great singing voice. He also recorded and distributed his own singing with his own music accompaniment, e.g., “Where Are Caine’s Descendants?” and “Happy Birthday (to Christ), Merry Christmas (to You)”. He was also an excellent sketch artist and talented at several crafts. He could do just about any type of home repairs from the roof to the ground. No wonder he said he was a “Jack of All Trades”; he truly was. James was always sharing his wisdom and knowledge which he gained throughout his life, a life filled with trials and tribulations, breakthroughs and accomplishments. He had a humorous way of telling stories of his lifetime struggles. James “Semaj” Hayes had grown to the point where he could laugh at some of the pathetic, ridiculous behaviors of human beings which had caused him stress and sorrows. James kept up on world current affairs until the end of his life. He would often say that all people should treat each other with fairness and kindness; live in peace on Earth. He is a strong courageous hero who has gone home to his heavenly Father, “the almighty, supreme God”, leaving on Earth many that he loves: his children, many grandchildren, many great grandchildren, extended family and friends who continue loving him, admiring him and missing him.In lieu of flowers please make a donation in the name of James “Saimaj” Hayes, Jr. to Fisher House NOLA for the VA Medical Center. More information can be found at fisherhouselouisiana.org. Due to government regulations, only a limited number of Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Services on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at Gertrude Geddes Willis Funeral Home, 2120 Jackson Avenue at 10:00 a.m. A Private Burial will be in Southeast Louisiana Veteran Cemetery-Slidell, LA. You may sign the guest book on www.gertrudegeddeswillis.com GERTRUDE GEDDES WILLIS FUNERAL HOME INC. CHARGE (504) 522-2525.