Patricia Hayes Jones, 93, of Miami, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026. Born on April 14, 1932, in
Efland, North Carolina, Patricia was raised by her mother, Elevene Sykes, her granddaddy Hayes and her beloved Aunt Mary Leia, who instilled in her the values of kindness, service, and faith that guided her life. She graduated from Hillsborough High School, where she played basketball, and went on to pursue nursing, becoming a Registered Nurse after training in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Patricia devoted her life to caring for others. She worked at Rockefeller University Hospital in New York City from 1954 to 1957, where her employment record described her as "Neat and tidy. Pleasing personality. Conscientious and industrious. An excellent nurse." She later continued her nursing career at Duke University Hospital and, after moving to Miami, at Doctors Hospital and as a private surgical nurse.
Known for her gentle spirit, quiet strength, and unwavering compassion, Patricia lived by her grandfather's guiding words: "Service is the price you pay for the space you occupy on this Earth." A woman of deep faith, she believed in treating others as she wished to be treated and found comfort in weekly worship and devotion.
She married Robert Tyree Jones, and together they raised two children, Lisa and Bradford. The family lived in New Orleans and later Miami, where Patricia dedicated herself to raising her children and supporting their activities, always present and always proud. In retirement, she moved to New Jersey, to be closer to her cherished grandchildren, Hayes and Addison Hoffman, who brought immense joy to her life.
Patricia is survived by her daughter, Lisa Carol Jones of Long Beach, California; her son, Bradford Hayes Jones of Maplewood, New Jersey; her beloved grandchildren Hayes Hoffman (20) and Addison Hoffman (17); her brother Mason Sykes of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and his children Jamie and Scottie; her nieces Patti and Donna; and extended family and dear friends.
The family of Patricia Hayes Jones extends heartfelt gratitude for your prayers, kind words, and presence today. Your love and support are deeply appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, Patricia was a steadfast supporter of Planned Parenthood, inspired by her years as a nurse and her belief that every woman deserves access to compassionate medical care and the right to choose. Donations in her memory may be made at:
https://tinyurl.com/Patricia-Hayes-Jones