James Dowell "Jim" Hayes Jr.

James Dowell "Jim" Hayes Jr., 66 years old, of Pampa, Texas, peacefully transitioned to his heavenly mansion on Tuesday evening, April 15, 2025, after a courageous 58-day battle in ICU following a massive heart attack. His beloved wife, Shelli, remained steadfast by his side throughout his fight.
Jim was born on December 4, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois to James and Gladys Hayes, one of nine cherished children. Following his graduation from Wilson High School in Wilson, OK, Jim dedicated 20 years of his life to serving his country in the United States Marines, retiring honorably as a Gunnery Sergeant after active duty during Desert Storm. During his service, he also attended Campbell University in North Carolina and earned an associate's degree in literature and arts.
In 2006, Jim moved from Yuma, Arizona to Pampa, Texas and began his career as an HVAC Tech at Larry Baker Plumbing, where he worked for 20 years. It was in Pampa that he met his soulmate, Shelli Brittenham, on a blind date on February 6, 2010, and from that point on, they were inseparable. They married on October 1, 2010, in Lefors, and their love and companionship knew no bounds as they were literally a perfect fit for one another.
Jim had a love for the outdoors, particularly spending time at the lake and fishing, he could easily get lost in a book and was a sci-fi movie enthusiast. He enjoyed watching sports, especially football, with an unwavering loyalty to the Green Bay Packers. He was a wonderful cook with a creative flare resulting in the most delicious meals. His military discipline translated into a beautiful, unselfish personality, marked by an incredibly caring heart, particularly towards children. He deeply cherished his time with his grandchildren, finding comfort and happiness in their company. Jim was good-hearted, kind, very quick-witted, and always aimed to make others happy, with Shelli's well-being as his primary concern. His enduring love for Shelli was encapsulated in his famous saying, "I Love You More!"
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, James and Gladys Hayes; a sister, Carmel Rich; a brother, Charles Shepard, and all four grandparents.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and will be deeply missed by his wife, Shelli Hayes; children, Nikkie Mulanax of Pampa, Michael Hayes and Christina Hayes of Yuma, AZ; siblings, Janice Gilleland and husband Joey of Pampa, Polly Murray of Miami, Jody Shepard and wife Kathy of Panama, Wesley Hayes and wife Dale of Panama, Jimbo Hayes of Miami, and Jerry Hayes of Ardmore, OK; his mother-in-law, Debra Barnes and fiancé Steve Chilton of Pampa; numerous grandchildren, including Nash, Jett, Easton, Bailey, and Ashley; two great-grandchildren; a special niece, LeAnne Hinton of Pampa; and his four-legged fur babies: Sam, Lil' Man, and Fat Girl Sissy. His dear friends at the new Allsup's on Hobart & 23rd, who looked forward to his daily visits, touched his life profoundly, and the family extends their heartfelt thanks.
For those preferring donations in honor of Jim, the family suggests they be made to the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75231-5129.
Jim will be available for viewing in the Winegeart Funeral Home Serenity Chapel as follows: • Thursday, April 17th from 2 ~ 8 pm • Friday, 18th from 3 ~ 6 pm • Saturday, 19th from 9 am ~ 8 pm • Monday, 21st from 9 am ~ 4 pm
Celebration of Life Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 pm, Monday, April 21, 2025, at Winegeart Funeral Home Serenity Chapel with Chaplain Nelson Feliciano officiating. Military honors will be presented by The United States Marine Corps Honors Team. As per Jim's request, cremation will follow services. The family has entrusted the care of their loved one to Winegeart Funeral Home.
Donations are being accepted for: NATIONAL CENTER To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James Dowell "Jim" Hayes Jr., please visit our Tree Store.