Lillie Hayes

Lillie Hayes of Warsaw, Indiana passed away at home surrounded by her loved ones on Monday, November 17, 2025, at the age of 83. God and family were her greatest priorities. She lived a fulfilling life as a wonderful wife, as well as a devoted mother and grandmother who was simply the heart of her family.

She was born on April 7, 1942, in Wabd, Kentucky, to Flossie Irene (Bullock) Payne and James Thomas Payne. Lillie graduated from Brodhead High School in Brodhead, Kentucky in 1960. She was always a very bright and driven individual who went on to study at Spencerian Business School in Louisville, Kentucky. During her time there, while out with a group of friends she caught the eye of a young man who would become her lifelong companion. A U.S. Army soldier stationed at Fort Knox who simply had to meet this gal that said a friendly hello and smiled at him. As a young bride of 20, she married the love of her life, Harvey Leroy Hayes, on July 3, 1962. They moved to Warsaw, Indiana in 1967 and were blessed with 63 years of marriage before Lillie passed away.

Lillie and her husband, Harvey, had a relationship that was a true partnership, where they shared a life of love and the challenges and joys of co-owning a business. From 1975 to 1985, they were the proprietors of Floors, Walls & Windows in Warsaw. Harvey was the dedicated carpet installer, while Lillie was a sought-after consultant in wallpaper design and selection. In 1985 their business expanded into H&L Motors and Decorative Beginnings in Warsaw, a long-standing, family-owned business. They happily served thousands of customers from friends and family in Kosciusko County and the surrounding areas and continue to do so today.

A woman of unwavering faith, she loved serving her Lord and was a founding member of Warsaw Baptist Church. Since 1986, her commitment shone through in many roles for over 30 years. Formerly serving as the church's treasurer as well as sharing her talents as the church pianist. Lillie also poured her heart into supporting the church's youth and was instrumental in the church's involvement with Operation Christmas Child, reflecting her passion for sharing God's love with children around the world.

Lillie found immense joy in all of her roles and treasured her family -her greatest source of happiness and pride. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Harvey Leroy Hayes (Warsaw, IN); son, Harvey "Butch" Jr. (Terra) Hayes (Warsaw, IN); daughter, Tracey (Randal) Patrick (Warsaw, IN); twelve grandchildren, Melissa, Paul, Tyrel, Caleb, Makayla, Cale, Bria, Katie, Harvey, Isaac, Jacob, Konner; and two great-grandchildren, Paul and Ezra. Also surviving are two brothers, Jim (Lavonna) Payne (KY); and Curtis (Thresia) Payne (OH); three sisters, Margaret (John) Kirby (OH); Jenny (Ray) Decker (KY); Gayle (Coy) Brown (KY); and her sister-in-law, Mary Alice Payne (OH). She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Shelby Payne; three sisters, Nola Gordon, Jewell Whitson and Lena McKinney; and three brothers-in-law, Don Gordon, Charlie Whitson, and Raymond McKinney.

Lillie's life will be celebrated with a service at 12:00 noon on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw, Indiana and officiated by her nephew, John McPheron. A graveside service will follow at Oakwood Cemetery of Warsaw. Friends and family may visit prior to the service from 9:00 – 12:00 noon.

Memorial donations in Lillie's memory may be directed to Hilltop Community Church, P.O. Box 1791, Warsaw, IN 46581; or to the Lake City Skiers, 2455 Hidden Lake Drive, Warsaw, IN 46580.