Michael James “Mike” Hayes, 81, passed away on February 20, 2025, in Brownwood, surrounded by the family he adored.
Born on September 15, 1943, in San Angelo, Mike grew up in Coleman, where he developed his love for sports, faith, and family. A talented athlete, he attended Lubbock Christian University on a track scholarship before continuing his education at Abilene Christian University. His strong work ethic and dedication led him through a long career in the freight industry, where he worked his way up from a driver to a terminal manager with Red Arrow Freight Lines and other companies. After retirement, he found his true calling—preaching the gospel for over 25 years at Lake Brownwood Church of Christ, where his words and example touched countless lives.
Faith was at the center of Mike’s life. He wasn’t just a preacher on Sundays—he lived his faith every day. He had a deep love for studying scripture and found joy in sharing its wisdom with others. Whether from the pulpit, across the dinner table, or in casual conversation, Mike’s words carried kindness, encouragement, and an unwavering belief in God’s grace.
But beyond his faith, Mike was a devoted family man. He married the love of his life, Becky, on May 29, 1964, and together they built a home filled with laughter, love, and the occasional good-natured debate over sports. He was a proud dad to his daughters, Mary Colleen and Cherrie, and an even prouder Grandaddy to his grandkids. His love was constant—whether he was cheering them on at games, spoiling them with treats, or simply offering quiet wisdom when they needed it most.
Mike also had a passion for life’s simple joys. He loved fishing, hunting, golf, and anything that involved a good game—especially if it meant rooting for his Texas Rangers, Longhorns, or Cowboys. His enthusiasm for sports was contagious, and if you ever sat next to him during a big game, you were in for a lively experience. He had a keen eye for collecting coins and sports memorabilia, a love for fast cars, and a deep appreciation for the works of Elmer Kelton. Good food, good music, and good company were all he needed for a perfect day.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmie and Colleen Hayes, and his beloved granddaughter, Shelby McKillip. He is survived by his devoted wife, Becky Hayes; daughters Mary Colleen Jennings and son-in-law Shane Jennings, and Cherrie McKillip and son-in-law Ken McKillip; grandchildren Madison McKillip, Morgan and Gideon Luck, Zach and Alaina Jennings, and Audrey McKillip; and great-granddaughter Elsie Jennings. He also leaves behind his siblings Phillip and Shirley Hayes, Cheryl and Gene Turney, Cebia and Mark Martin, and Jenny and Bob Martin, along with many nieces and nephews and countless friends and loved ones who were blessed to know him.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on March 8, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Early Church of Christ (900 Early Blvd., Early, Texas 76802). In honor of Mike’s love for baseball, attendees are encouraged to wear Texas Rangers colors or jerseys—a fitting tribute to a man who lived with passion, faith, and heart.
Mike’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his nephew, James Turney, Mike and Becky’s lifelong friend, Norlene Gleaton, and the staff of Gentiva Hospice and Pecan Bayou for their compassionate care in his final days. A special thank you to Dr. Mark Martin and Jennifer Evans for their excellent care and unwavering kindness over the past years—it meant the world to Mike and to those who loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Shelby’s Grace Foundation in honor of his beloved granddaughter. Shelby’s Grace partners with Houses for Healing to provide free, temporary housing for families whose newborns are receiving treatment in the NICU at Hendrick Medical Center. Contributions can be made online at Shelby’s Grace or mailed to Shelby’s Grace at 901 N. Fisk Ave. #166, Brownwood, TX 76801. Your generosity will help support families in their time of need the way that Mike did his whole life.
Mike’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched. He was a man of integrity, kindness, and unwavering faith, and his presence will be deeply missed. As we say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing he’s now in his eternal home—probably talking sports with the angels or fishing with his granddaughter and waiting to welcome us all with open arms one day.
Condolences, memories, and tributes can be offered to the Hayes family online at heartlandfuneralhome.net