John Robert Hayes, born on December 30, 1960, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, passed away in the care of his loved ones on October 20, 2024, in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, after a difficult and brave battle with Lewy body dementia.

John spent his early years moving across the country due to his father's mining career, eventually settling in Bishop, California. He enjoyed many outdoor activities including skiing, camping, and fishing. He was active in sports during his school years, including basketball, football, track, and graduated from Bishop Union High School in 1979.

John developed a deep appreciation for music. Although he did not enjoy his early life experiences with piano lessons, it led him to his passion for the guitar. He was an avid fan of folk, rock, western, and especially Christian music. He even wrote several original acoustic guitar songs about his love of Jesus.

Shortly after graduating high school, John felt a calling to become a pastor and attended seminary in Fresno, California. He later moved to Rockdale, Texas, to lead a church. John married Margo Oglesbee in Texas, blending their families and eventually moving to Fresno, California, and then to Oklahoma. Throughout their marriage and several moves, John and Margo maintained an active involvement in the ministry - pastoring, serving on numerous worship teams, leading small groups, and working with youth. Their shared dedication to the Lord deepened their relationship and was a reflection of their commitment to each other.

John was a loving husband and father who took pride in emulating the love of Christ in everything he did. From sledding in the mountains to camping in the backyard and peppering life with dad jokes, John leaves his wife and children with precious memories they will carry in their hearts forever. His family will remember him for his humorous spirit and contagious smile, and his wife will never forget his expressive brows when words escaped him.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Margo; their children Brandon (Kelcie) Hayes, Nathan Oglesbee, Tarah (Tyler) Sims, Natalie (Alex) Bauta, and Lisa (Geovanny) Contes; sisters Karen Hayes and Nancy (Bob) Burrus; brother-in-law Chuck Warren; nieces, nephews; and nine grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3:00pm on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Community Baptist Church in Coweta, Oklahoma.