Robert "Bobby" Archer Hayes passed away on Good Friday, March 29 at the age of 58. Bobby was a cherished husband, father, and grandfather who left a legacy of broad smiles with the people he encountered on his earthly journey.
Born on July 27, 1965, in Houston, Texas, Bobby was adopted by doting parents Bob and Marjorie Hayes. His formative years were spent in Austin where Bobby enjoyed skateboarding and football, among other activities. The Hayes family relocated to Montgomery County in 1979 where Bobby attended Willis and Conroe high schools. Bobby graduated from CHS in 1983 and proudly played on the Tiger football team like his father before him. Bobby enthusiastically raced dirt bikes, participated in rodeo events, hunting, and softball. He studied at Sam Houston State University.
On June 23, 1995, Bobby married the love of his life, Kimberly Collins Hayes. They were happily married for 28 years and had three adoring children. Bobby supported his daughters' dance activities and relished participating as "Dad" on and off the field. Bobby coached his son in baseball and football; he was proud that Carson played for the Tigers, too. Bobby cherished new friendships made through his children's activities.
Bobby found community in the Montgomery County Fair, where he was a dedicated volunteer for 32 years. As officer in charge of the Fair's Horseshoe Club, he cultivated lifelong friendships and made enduring contributions to the Fair Association. In 2020, the MCFA awarded him as a Lifetime Vice President. A scholarship is being endowed in Bobby's honor.
An avid sports enthusiast, Bobby passionately cheered for the Houston Astros, Houston Texans, LSU Tigers and Texas Longhorns. His extensive collection of hats adorned with team logos reflected Bobby's spirit.
Bobby was a problem solver who exuded calm in difficult situations. Bobby courageously and resiliently battled colon cancer that metastasized to the liver. He passed away surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
Bobby is survived by his beloved wife Kimberly; his daughter Katie Gilbert and her husband Austin; his daughter Natalie; his son Carson; his sister Holly Reeves and her husband Brad; his niece Payton Lauerman and her husband Charlie; his nephew Cole and his wife Brittany; and his cherished grandchildren, Dillon and Charlotte Gilbert. Bobby inherited four sisters and their spouses in his marriage to Kim. Eight nieces and nephews, as well as nine great-nieces and nephews, adored their Uncle Bobby.
The visitation will be at Cashner Funeral Home on Friday, April 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. A memorial service is planned for 10 a.m on Saturday, April 6 at Cashner Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Conroe Memorial Park.
In addition to flowers, donations to Bobby’s MCFA scholarship fund are welcome. Friends may dress comfortably and colorfully in honor of Bobby's zest for life.
