James Hayes

Hartford:

James Edward Hayes, 85, passed away at 6:34am on Friday, September 5, 2025, at John Cochran VA Medical Center in St. Louis. He was born on June 7, 1940, in Valley Park, Missouri, the son of the late William and Betty (Schwarzenbach) Hayes. He married the former Karen Smith in December of 2004 in Edwardsville, and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters and sons in law: Jenny and Jeff Miller of Desoto, Missouri, Jamie and Joel Meador of South Roxana, two step daughters: Donna Meyer of Hartford, Christa (Frank) Talbott of Tennessee, a step son: Larry Lee Meyer, Jr. of Chicago, four grandchildren: Jessie Duncan, Jorden Meador, Jason (Kellie) Miller, Jessica Miller, five step grandchildren: Erica (Ryan) Spurgeon, Amanda (Austin) Hood, Brandon Bucks, Abbie Meyer, Faith Meyer, Laryssa Meyer, Delilah Meyers, three great grandchildren: Jaxon, Wyatt, Alexia, ten step great grandchildren, a sister: Kathy Hayes of Fenton, Missouri, his best friend of over forty years and his wife: Buzzy and Carolyn Childers, his beloved dog: Simon, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Jim was employed for over thirty - five years as a supervisor at National Maintenance in the gas free plant. He was a member of the South Roxana Dad’s Club and the American Legion in South Roxana. He was a veteran of the United States Army.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son: Jimmie Wilhelm, a sister: Betty Gene Hayes and a brother: Robert Hayes.

In celebration of his life, memorial visitation will be from 4pm until time of services at 6pm on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Military honors will be conducted at 3:30pm by the Ritual Team of VFW Post 1308 of Alton.

Memorials are suggested to the 5A’s and will be accepted at the funeral home.