Mr. James Leo Hayes, 79, of Airline Community, Bowersville, passed away Tuesday, March 15 2022 at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital, Athens.

Born on February 15, 1943 in Hartwell, GA, he was the son of the late Albert Hayes and Laura Crook Hayes. Mr. Hayes was a delivery driver for Ford Lumber Company for over 36 years and a member of the Savannah River, Trout Unlimited.He was also a member of the Flat Shoals Baptist Church, where he was a former deacon and bus driver.

Survivors include his wife: Linda Seigler Hayes; one daughter: Tammy Miller (Jimmy) of Bowersville; one son: Matt Hayes (Joyce) of Hunters Creek; one brother: Wayne Hayes (Mary) of Lavonia; one sister: Elizabeth Mathis (D.R.) of Cumming GA; four grandchildren: Nathan Miller (Katie), Jeremy Miller (Amy), Raegan Hayes, Aubrey Hayes and three great grandchildren: Rylan Miller, Mackenzie Miller and Emery Latham. Mr. Hayes was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Jerry Hayes and Bobby Hayes and one sister: Vernell Hayes Fleming.

The family will receive friends Sunday afternoon from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.Other times the family will be at the home.

Funeral services for Mr. James Hayes will be held Sunday, March 20, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell with Rev. Cory Pulliam officiating.Burial will be in the Flat Shoals Baptist Church Cemetery.

Flowers optional, memorials may be made to the Flat Shoals Baptist Church, 2999 Bowersville Hwy, Bowersville GA 30516.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.