Gregory Hayes

Gregory Hayes VIRGINIA BEACH - Sgt. Gregory Hayes of the Virginia Beach Police Department departed this life July 21, 2009. He was born in New York City Sept. 12, 1961, to Calvin and Selena Hayes. Several years later, he moved with his family to Brooklyn, N.Y. He started his early childhood education in the Brooklyn school system. In 1973, his family moved to Englewood, N.J., where he entered Englewood Middle School, and attended Dwight Morrow High School for two years. He transferred to the prestigious Rhodes Academy, where he completed his studies. Over several years, he studied for and received his associate's degree in liberal arts and later he received his bachelor's of science degree. After graduation, he joined the U.S. Army. During his time in the Army, he was selected to return to his hometown of Englewood, as a recruiter. When he departed the military, he received an honorable discharge. When he left the military, Greg was told by everyone jobs were scarce, and that he should stay in the military. He answered by saying, "Yes, I can find one." He found not only one, but three jobs to choose from. He chose the telephone installer position. Receiving a promotion to supervisor rewarded Greg's diligence and good work ethics. He loved his work and the freedom it allowed him to navigate around New York City and New Jersey. After several years, he got the urge to move on to new territories where he could serve and help people at the same time. He applied to the Virginia Beach Police Department and was accepted. In the fall of 1990, upon graduation from the Recruit Academy, Greg, as he was called, held many ranks and positions. First, as an officer at the third and second precinct, as a SWAT Team member of Special Operations at the first precinct, and as a police detective at the Second precinct. Greg received a career progression to master police officer in September 1996, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant in December 2004. In that capacity, he served at the second precinct and then the Detective Bureau, Warrant and Fugitive Unit until his untimely retirement, due to illness in May 2009. In 2001, prior to 9/11, Greg joined the U.S. Coast Guard. He was assigned to Marine Safety office. He was activated after 9/11 to protect and secure the ports of Hampton Roads. Greg was reactivated during Operation Freedom of Iraq to secure the ports of Norfolk. He held the rank of petty officer 1st class. In September 2008, Greg and a fellow police officer, Ben Johnson became partners in a business venture, Virginia Beach Ink, Tattoo Studio; this was very successful. He leaves to cherish the beautiful memories of his loving and devoted wife, Zelithea; his son, Maurice "Mo"; his daughter, Destany "Pumpkin," as he affectionately called her; and his grandson, Jamari, whom he loved dearly. He also leaves very loving and supportive parents, Calvin and Selena Hayes of Englewood, N.J.; father- in-law, Randy Germain of St. Croix and devoted and caring mother-in-law, Lois Germain of New York; two brothers, Antoine Hayes (Mary) of Trenton, N.J., and Kevin Hayes (Jacquelin) of Englewood; two nephews, Antaj Yancey and Kevin Hayes Jr.; two nieces, LaToya and Tori Hayes; several aunts, Lois Hayes and Janie Hayes, both of Norfolk, Jocelyn Wilkins of Norfolk, Melvina Johnson of Rahway, N.J., Roslyn Turner (Clinton) of Upper Marlboro, Md.; two uncles, James Hayes (Luvenia) and Lynwood Hayes (Joyce); numerous cousins including Keenan Hayes of Norfolk, Steven Hayes (Wilhelmina) of Chesapeake, and Gwen Harris (Mallory Mann) of Norfolk, who remained loyal and supportive; and a host of other relatives and friends. A wake will be held today from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Chapel of Graves Funeral Home, 1631 Church St., Norfolk. A homegoing celebration will be held Saturday, July 25, at 11 a.m. in Rock Church, 640 Kempsville Road, Virginia Beach. The Rev. Joseph L. Hassell from New Kindling Baptist Church will be officiating. Interment will be held in Chesapeake Memorial Gardens. www.gravesfuneralhomeinc.com.