Robert Hayes

Robert Hayes, of Hickory NC, died at home on August 14. He was born in Charlotte on March 31, 1947. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Adelaide Palmer Hayes and William James Hayes. He lost his beloved son, Christopher Cummings Hayes, in 2015. Survivors include his wife of 19 years, Julia Grimes Hayes; daughter Erin Adelaide Hayes and husband Thomas Cogan; step-daughter Elizabeth Hunsaker and husband Jordan; and two step-grandchildren. Robert served in the US Army as an Intelligence Officer in Special Forces (Green Berets) at the rank of First Lieutenant. Medals he earned include a Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, a Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Vietnam Jump Wings, and the Vietnam Service Medal. Robert earned a BA in English and an MA in Human Development and Learning at UNC-Charlotte. He taught high school English and volunteered at the Veterans Center in Charlotte; worked as a psychotherapist in private practice in Charlotte and as manager for the women's unit in the work release program for the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office; and worked as a volunteer adviser and instructor in the First-Year Seminar program at Catawba College in Salisbury. Robert (Bix) Hayes was “our favorite veteran,” “the sweetest man who ever lived,” and “the best dad there ever was.” The Hayes family invites vaccinated friends to Robert's visitation and service on Saturday, September 4, 2021 at Bennett Funeral Service, 7878 NC Hwy 16, Newton, NC. Visitation begins at 9:45 a.m.; the service begins at 11:00. Masks are required, and social distancing is expected. Memorials may be sent to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC; to Catawba Valley Health System, 710 Fairgrove Church Rd. SE, Hickory, NC, 28602; or to the Mind, Body, and Soul Program, Catawba College, 2300 W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC 28144. Condolences may be sent to the Hayes family at www.bennettfuneralservice.com The Hayes family is in the care of Bennett Funeral Service of Newton, 828-465-2111.