William Eugene Hayes

William Eugene Hayes, age 77, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2025, after a courageous three-month battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Known as Bill to his friends and family, he was born on October 9, 1947, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to the late Elmer William Hayes and Margaret Alyce Dondlinger Hayes. Bill attended Haven High School in Kansas, and attended Emporia State College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in accounting. He built a successful career with Sears, Roebuck and Company, serving as an accounting controller. Over the years, his work took him to Springfield, Missouri; Kansas City, Missouri; Albuquerque, New Mexico; St. Joseph, Missouri; Fort Collins, Colorado; back to Springfield, Missouri; and ultimately to Tulsa, Oklahoma, as he advanced in leadership roles. Bill dedicated 20+ years to Sears before embarking on a new venture as an entrepreneur, opening a successful Allstate Insurance Agency, which he operated for another 20+ years. Bill is survived by his three children: Randy William Hayes of Tulsa; Bradley Neil Hayes of Frisco, Texas; and Deedra Renee Determan and her husband, Jarrett Determan, of Tulsa. He is also remembered by their mother, Linda Kay Wewers of Tulsa. His legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren: Avery Determan, Jace Determan, and Harper Hayes. He is also survived by his siblings: Jim Hayes and wife Sonja, Jack Hayes and wife Paula, Neil Hayes and wife Lynette, and his sister Marcia McAnarney and her husband Jim. Bill loved the outdoors-whether he was grilling by the pool, walking to the pond to feed the ducks, or checking in on his neighbors in the French Creek community, where he was treated like family. When he wasn't outside, you could find him watching sports, cheering on the Chiefs, OSU Cowboys, or the OKC Thunder. Bill's personality was magnetic. He was always up for a good time and often had the loudest-and most contagious-laugh in the room. Even in his final days, he maintained an incredible attitude, finding joy in each and every moment. A special thank you to Manola Ojeva for her love and compassionate care in Bill's final days. A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Monday, April 14 at 2 p.m. at Moore's Southlawn Chapel, 9350 E 51st St, Tulsa, OK 74145, with a reception to follow. All are welcome. Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. - Maya Angelou The family is deeply grateful for the many ways Bill was loved, and for the prayers, presence, and support of so many during this time. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Bill's honor to Up With Trees.

William Eugene Hayes

October 9, 1947 - April 6, 2025