Leona Gene Hayes

Leona Gene Hayes Leona Gene Hayes, age 83, passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2014, at home in Sebring, Florida. Though she lost her courageous battle with cancer, she gained eternity with The Lord. Through this struggle, she taught us how to live with strength, love, and faith. Gene was born on August 16, 1930 in Glendale, West Virginia to the late Dallas E. and Ada O. (Wilcox) Jordan. She was a 1948 graduate of Canton McKinley High School, where she excelled in forensics and debate. She was married to her high school sweetheart and best friend Fred for 66 years, a testament of true love. Gene was a loving wife and mother, a woman of integrity and grace. She was a witty woman and an excellent speaker, often serving as Master of Ceremonies for her community events in Sebring. Through the years, Gene's talents also helped her and Fred run their many business ventures, the most rewarding being the Hayes Orchard near Minerva. She enjoyed golf, tennis and spending time with family and friends. When tennis was no longer an option, she cherished playing cards with special friends Jerry and Mary Linsley in Sebring every winter. Gene always had time for her children and grandchildren - never refusing to babysit or to listen and comfort. Her gentle spirit and loving heart extended to everyone who knew her. Even in these recent difficult days, her concern was for her husband and family - the example of a selfless woman. Gene was a member of Cathedral of Life Church. She is survived by her husband, Fred Hayes, Sr. children: Brenda Neel (Jim) - Lewis Center,OH; Fred Hayes, Jr. (Cindy)- Sebring, FL; Susie Hayes- Canton, OH; Kathy Bolin-N. Canton, OH; Tricia King (Rich) -Canton, OH, sisters: Ruth Smith-Villa Hills KY; Virginia Saunier (Vernon)-Louisville, OH, grandchildren: Jim Neel; Michelle Cumston; Fred Hayes, III; Beth Hayes; Jennifer Green; Jessica Whiteleather; Brittany Kidd; Bethany King and nine great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her granddaughter: Sarah Hayes and her brother: Floyd Jordan. Arrangements for a celebration of her life are pending. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Good Shepherd Hospice, 1110 Hammock Rd., Sebring, FL 33870, www.chaptershealth.org Cremation Arrangements entrusted to: Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home of Sebring (863) 385-0125 www.stephensonnelsonfh.com