Barry Hayes Obituary

Barry Lynn Hayes, born on October 16, 1950, in Washington, Georgia, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2024, at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Downtown Division from service-related complications. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Barry was known for his immense talent as a diesel mechanic and his vibrant personality.

From a young age, Barry demonstrated a love for mechanics and sports. After growing up in Thomson and graduating from Thomson High School, where he excelled in football, he expressed his patriotism and love of his country by joining the Army to serve during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable service, he attended Georgia Southern University before embarking on a successful career as a heavy equipment mechanic.

Barry's expertise in his field quickly established him as the best diesel mechanic in the county. His remarkable skills were showcased during his two-decade tenure with Wayne Smith's logging trucks, followed by his final role at Interstate Equipment in Thomson until his retirement in 2023. His commitment to his craft earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients alike.

A man of deep faith, Barry cherished his family above all else. He is remembered as humble, loyal, and a straight shooter, always speaking his mind and ensuring that those around him knew where they stood with him. Barry had a wonderful way of making people feel comfortable, well-liked by all who knew him. He relished laughter and the joy of friendship, often finding himself surrounded by family and friends sharing moments of connection and humor.

In addition to his mechanical prowess, Barry pursued various hobbies and interests. He was a passionate sports enthusiast, fervently supporting the Atlanta Braves and Georgia Bulldogs. In his younger days, he enjoyed riding and tinkering with motorcycles and as well as participating in tractor pulls where he accumulated many trophies in the 1980s. Barry gained recognition as "the tractor doctor" for his remarkable ability to restore old tractors to their former glory. He also had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, finding solace in his vegetable garden and the simple pleasures of nature.

Barry was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Savannah McGahee; his parents, Louise Parish Hayes and Ira "Joe" Lee Hayes; and his brother, James Lester Ray. His legacy is carried on by his loving and devoted wife, Gail Kukla Hayes; his children, Carli Hayes McGahee (Cliff), John McNerlin, and Christina Parker (Kirby); and his ten beloved grandchildren: Carson Hayes, Tessa Hayes, Abigail McGahee, Natalia McDaniel, Jonathan McNerlin, Isabella McNerlin, Oliver McNerlin, Owen McNerlin, Ryan Parker, and Evan Parker. He is also survived by his siblings, Patricia Stewart (Roger) and Terry Hayes (Carol Ann); nephews, Chris Hayes and Billy Cranford (Lisa); other extended family members; and a host of dear friends.

A graveside service with military honors to celebrate Barry's life will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Little Briar Creek Baptist Church Cemetery officiated by Rev. Chad Watkins. This gathering of family and friends will honor a life well-lived and a spirit now at peace.