James Patrick "Jim" Hayes

James Patrick Hayes, 83, of Battle Creek, Michigan, died peacefully at Heritage Assisted Living on Friday, May 9, 2025.

Jim was born October 25, 1941, in Battle Creek, Michigan, the son of John Max Hayes and Martha Okeneske Hayes. He grew up in Battle Creek, Michigan and was a 1959 graduate of St. Phillip Catholic Central High School.

James Patrick Hayes was united in marriage to SueAnn Inez Everhart on July 7, 1962, at St. Philip Roman Catholic Church. Sadly, Jim was preceded in death by Sue, his wife of 53 years. Surviving are their daughter, Theresa (Steve) Clement of Battle Creek; two sons, Tim (Lori) Hayes of East Leroy, John (Shauna) Hayes of Grand Haven; son-in-law, Chuck (Sheri) Winget of Battle Creek; 20 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; his Sister Mary Ann Austin and numerous nieces and nephews and their families. Jim was also preceded in death by his parents; brother Dick Hayes, his daughter, Beth Ann Winget on June 4, 1997; a granddaughter, Samantha Winget on September 15, 1987.

Jim spent his professional career as an insurance agent at Pollard Insurance Agency for over 30 years, retiring as a partner in 2017. After retiring he enjoyed friends, family and golf. He loved supporting his grandchildren and attending all of their events, he was the loudest and most supportive fan in the bleachers.

Jim was a member of St Philip Parish, an integral member of the St. Philip Catholic Athletic Association; and early member of the Wattles Park Men's Club. He loved his family, friends and being social. He was an avid fan of Michigan Football, the Detroit Lions and the Red Wings. Jim enjoyed sports of all kinds, fishing, camping, officiating sports and playing cards. Jim will be remembered as a St. Philip and Michigan Officiating hall of famer, a great friend, and a wonderful grandpa, affectionately referred to as "Bompi" by his beloved grandkids and great grandkids.

The family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday, May 19, 2025 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where a time of sharing and the Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Jim may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.