Vernon R. Hayes

The angels spread their wings on September 21, 1947 and brought new life to Houston. Vernon R. Hayes, 63, of Baytown was born to Lawrence M. Hayes and Orlean Margariete Hayes. He retired from OXY Chemical on March 31, 2011 as a maintenance supervisor. Vernon enjoyed being a father and grandfather, spending time at the deer lease, and annual family ski trips to Red River, NM. He and his wife, Wilma enjoyed the many motorcycle trips they took together.

Vernon was a very active member of Optimist International of which he held various offices in both the district and local club level, including serving as a past Governor of the S. E. Texas District. He was also an active member of the Baytown Lions Club and a member of Second Baptist Church.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Wilma Hayes; sons and daughters-in-law, Tim and Laura Hayes, Michael and Ann Hayes, Deke and Connie Witt, and Scott Witt; sisters and brother-in-law, Kathy and Royce Williams and Cindy Wolfe; and grandchildren, Zach Hayes, Rachel Witt, Forest Hayes, Kelsey Lyles, James Witt, Sarah Hayes, Corbin Hayes, and Josie Witt.

His family will receive friends at Navarre Funeral Home Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral service will be Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at Navarre Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Stafford officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ken Pantin, Todd Phelps, Charlie Miles, Mike Shirley, David Evans, and Billy Mitchell.

In lieu of usual remembrances, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 15186, Austin, TX 78761, www.heart.org, the Baytown Optimist Club, P. O. Box 695, Baytown, TX 77522, or the charity of one's choice.

Vernon's sly sense of humor, gravely voice, and smile will be sorely missed.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX, 77521 (281) 422-8111.