Donald Eugene Hayes Sr.

Donald Eugene "Gene" Hayes, Sr., 86, of LaGrange, Georgia, passed away on October 6, 2025, at WellStar West Georgia Hospice. Born on November 4, 1938, in Abanda, Alabama, to the late Will and Mattie Hayes, Gene lived a life defined by faith, family, and an unwavering dedication to education. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Donald (Donnie) Eugene Hayes, Jr.; five brothers; and two sisters.
Gene graduated from Five Points High School in 1956, where he met the love of his life, Freddie Brown. The two were married on March 31, 1960, and shared 64 wonderful years together. He went on to attend Auburn University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Education in 1960, a Master's degree in 1962, and an Education Specialist degree in 1967.
His remarkable teaching career began in Goodwater, Alabama, where he taught math and coached basketball. In 1967, he joined the faculty of LaGrange High School in LaGrange, Georgia, where he taught math for 24 years. During that time, Gene also served as Math Club advisor, coached the golf team, and inspired generations of students. His dedication and excellence in the classroom earned him the distinction of STAR Teacher thirteen times-a reflection of the deep respect and admiration his students had for him.
Beyond LaGrange High School, Gene also taught at Southern Union State Community College and West Georgia Technical College, tutored countless students privately, and managed two cattle farms, where he spent much of his free time. After retiring from public education, he continued sharing his passion for teaching at LaGrange Academy for another decade and volunteered his time and wisdom to students at Hollis Hand Elementary and Berta Weathersbee Schools.
Gene's faith was steadfast. Upon moving to LaGrange, he and Freddie joined First United Methodist Church of LaGrange, where he served as an usher, Sunday School teacher, and on numerous committees. In 2023, they became members of Wesley Methodist Church of LaGrange, where Gene found great joy in his Men's Bible Study and Sunday School class. His thoughtful insight, quick wit, and genuine faith made him a teacher not only in the classroom but also within his church family.
An avid outdoorsman, Gene loved hunting, fishing, and playing golf. He especially enjoyed hosting fish fries for family, friends, and even his students-a reflection of his generous spirit and love for community.
Faith and family were the cornerstones of Gene's life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who poured his heart into those he loved. Whether through a challenging math problem or a simple conversation, Gene had a way of shaping both minds and hearts.
He is survived by his wife, Freddie Brown Hayes; children, David Hayes (Lenora) and Alison Vinson (Todd); and daughter-in-law, Missy Hayes. He was affectionately known as "Pops"-his favorite title of all-to his grandchildren: Tyler Hayes, Luke Hayes, Connor Hayes, Michael Hayes (Audrey), Elizabeth Hayes, Matthew Hayes, Hayes Giddens (Zach), Jacob Vinson, and Walker Vinson; and to his great-grandchildren: John, Charlotte, and Adalyn Hayes, and Graham Giddens.
Gene Hayes will be remembered as an extraordinary educator, a faithful servant, and a man who loved deeply and lived fully.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern, at Wesley Methodist Church of LaGrange, which meets in the gymnasium of Western Heights Baptist Church, located at 2382 West Point Road, LaGrange, Georgia. A reception will follow the service, and a private burial will be held at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions to Wesley Methodist Church of LaGrange in memory of Mr. Donald Eugene (Gene) Hayes, Sr. Donations may be mailed to the church office at 301 Broome Street, Suite 101, LaGrange, Georgia, or given online.
Arrangements by Higgins Funeral Home at Hunter-Allen-Myhand, 501 Hill Street, LaGrange, Georgia 30241.