Cornelia Paulette "Polly" Hayes

Cornelia Paulette "Polly" (Wallace) Hayes, age 81, of Clarksville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 22, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and joyful memories. Born to the late Ernie and Katherine (Phelps) Wallace, Paulette grew up with a heart full of warmth and a spirit that made every room brighter. For more than thirty years, Cornelia worked faithfully at the New Albany White Castle, where she became so much more than an employee-she became family. Known as the work mascot with her ever-present smile, she brought joy, comfort, and kindness to her coworkers and the many regular customers who adored her. Her laughter was infectious, her presence uplifting, and her ability to make people feel seen and appreciated was truly a gift.

Paulette found happiness in the simple beauties of life. Gardening and tending to her flowers brought her peace, and she cherished the moments when a bright red cardinal would visit her yard. To her, the cardinal was a message from Heaven-a reminder that loved ones who had gone before were checking in. Each fluttering wing made her heart lighter and her day a little brighter, reassuring her that she was always surrounded by love.

She enjoyed everything about Christmastime-twinkling lights, cheerful decorations, and hours of Hallmark Christmas movies that filled her with wonder and joy. Country music was the soundtrack of her home, especially when she was cooking or making candy for the family she treasured beyond measure. Paulette also loved to travel and deeply enjoyed going on cruises, where her favorite strawberry daiquiris and pina coladas made every adventure a little sweeter. A loyal sports fan, Paulette never missed a chance to cheer on her grandchildren at their games-often as the loudest voice in the crowd. And when basketball season rolled around, she proudly and passionately rooted for her beloved UK Wildcats.

Paulette was preceded in death by her precious great-granddaughter, Memphis Mae Hayes; her brother, Ernie "Preacher" Wallace; her sister, Letha Mae Wallace; and nephew, John Anthony Wallace.

She leaves behind her devoted husband of 62 years, Jim Hayes; daughters, Stephanie Hayes, Amanda McNeill (Pat), Veronica Reeves (Owen), and Melissa Buck; nine grandchildren: Sara Peel (Colt), Andrew Buck (Saralyn) Chad Duncan (Jennifer), Kindra Hein (George), Danielle Duncan, Kathryn Monroe, Kyle Monroe, Elizabeth McCaulley, and Nicholas Hayes (Kenzie); sisters, Vivian Marchand and Robin Wallace; and 14 cherished great-grandchildren-each one holding a special piece of her heart. She will also be missed by family doggies that she adored, McGhee & Elvis!

Funeral Services will be held at 4 PM on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Scott Funeral Home, 2515 Veterans Parkway, Jeffersonville, officiated by Pastor Joe Bradley. Friends may visit from 11 AM until the time of service on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Paulette's legacy is one of kindness, love, and steadfast devotion to the people and places she held dear. Her family finds comfort in knowing that, just like the cardinals she loved so much, her gentle spirit will continue to visit, encourage, and watch over them in the days to come.