John Martin Hayes

"Johnny"

Johnny Hayes, of Belmont, NC and Denver, NC died on December 21, 2011 as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Born in Gastonia, NC on November 5, 1942, he was the son of Corrie and the late Emerald "Tony" Hayes.

Johnny grew up in Belmont, NC where he attended Belmont High School. He was a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned his Masters in International Commerce from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Phoenix, AZ. As an avid golfer and skier, Johnny spent the years after college traveling the western United States and Europe in search of the next good powder run. Johnny married Elizabeth Ann Hoak (his "Annie") on November 28, 1969 in Denver, NC.

He spent the early part of his career working internationally in the field of Medical Sales. Through his lifelong friend Humpy Wheeler, Johnny then let his personal passions lead him into the business of auto racing. Johnny was a NASCAR team owner before becoming Executive Vice President of Motorsports for US Tobacco Company, a position he held for 15 years. Johnny furthered his passion for racing as a television commentator on Turner Network Television and ESPN and hosted his own show on SPEED Television.

Upon retirement, Johnny and Ann poured their love of history and art into restoring their Rockbridge Baths, VA residence. Johnny's generosity was exceeded only by his love for his family and dear wife Annie. He never met a stranger, never forgot where he came from, and was always a champion of the underdog.

Johnny is survived by his his wife, Ann; children, Scott Hayes of Eden Prairie, MN, Zackery Hayes of Davidson, NC, and Kristin Hayes Morris of Charlotte, NC; brother and sister-in-law, Don and Mary Ann Hayes of Dalton, GA; grandchildren, Zachary and Sophia Hayes, Ella and Wyatt Hayes, and Hayes Morris; and many extended family members.

A celebration of Johnny's life will take place at Johnny and Ann's residence in Denver, NC in May of 2012. Details of the event will be announced at a later date.

The family asks that memorial contributions be made to the local Salvation Army of your choosing.