Heather Dawn Hayes

Heather Dawn Hayes, age 48 of Knoxville, Tennessee entered the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on the day of December 8, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She bravely endured a relentless battle with cancer, meeting each day with faith, courage, and a smile.
Heather was born on December 2, 1977, in Knoxville, Tennessee to Johnny and Elizabeth Collins. She married the love of her life, Gerald Hayes, and together they shared 30 wonderful years filled with love and laughter. She adored her daughters, who were the joy of her life - Sydnie Hayes Brown (Cayden) and Adison Hayes. She was dearly loved by her sisters, Nicki Brasher and Mandy Bailey.
A graduate of Carson-Newman College, Heather spent her life investing in others through education. She taught for many years at Paulette Elementary School and Rutledge Middle School, where she poured her heart into her students, and left a lasting impact on countless young lives.
Her "teacher friends" became like family, sharing a loyal bond that lasted a lifetime.
Heather's faith in Jesus Christ was the central part of who she was. She was an active member of Clear Springs Baptist Church for more than 20 years – teaching Sunday school, helping with the youth, and doing what she loved the most, working in the nursery with her two girls.
She carried herself with grace, dignity, and a warm positivity that inspired us all. With grateful hearts for a life well-lived and deep sorrow for our loss, we will miss your smiling face.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on Saturday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m. at Clear Springs Baptist Church, 7350 Tazewell Pike in Corryton, Tennessee, with Justin Pratt officiating. Burial and graveside services will be on Sunday, December 14 at 2:00 p.m. at Rutledge Pike Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery with Jerry Vittatoe officiating.
Serving as Pallbearers: Matt Bradley, Hayden Brasher, Logan Brasher, Cayden Brown, Tony Chandler, Cooper Hayes, and Tracy Hayes.
Stevens Mortuary, Oglewood Avenue at N. Broadway is serving the family of Mrs. Hayes. Mrs. Hayes' guestbook is available online at www.stevensmortuaryinc.com.
Proverbs 31