Mr. Richard Hayes, 66 of Charlotte, passed away on January 5, 2019 at his residence. He was the son of the late Curtis Lee Hayes, Sr. and the late Annie Lou Hayes and was born on September 30, 1952 in Charlotte, NC.

Richard was educated in the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, graduating from Olympic Senior High were he was on the cross country and track and field teams.  After graduation, he married the love of his life, the former Christine McKinney.  Richard served his country admirable, enlisting in the United States Army and was discharged with the rank of Sergeant. He was also employed at the Pentagon.  While enlisted, he received the National Defense Service and Good Conduct medals and the Marksman Badge with M-16 Rifle Bar.  Following his military service, Richard and Christine returned to Charlotte where they raised their three children, Richard Norvel, Priscilla and Christopher.  Richard would earn two Associate degrees, one in Accounting and one in Automotive Repair from Central Piedmont Community College. For the bulk of his career, Richard worked as a tire builder at General/Continental Tire.  However, he would never cross his union's picket line and would often obtain second jobs either during strikes or to supplement the family's income while doing seasonal work as a tax preparer.  After a massive round of layoffs at Continental, Richard opened up his own cleaning business.

Later in life, Richard deepened his relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  He became an active member of the Divine Revelation Church of Jesus Christ where he participated in the Men's Ministry and the Usher Board.  He was a honorary member of the Youth Department and faithfully worked to insure that the interior and exterior of the church was beautiful and in order.  He also became a grandfather and was best friends with his grandson, Richard Issa.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Lewis Edward Hayes.  Left to cherish fond memories and continue his legacy are his beloved and devoted wife, Christine, his two sons, Richard N. (Bridget) of New York, NY and Christopher (financee' Jovan) of New Orleans, LA, his daughter, Priscilla of Charlotte, his grandson, Richard Issa of New York, NY, his brothers, Curtis Lee Jr. and James (Antionette), both of Charlotte, his sisters, JoAnn (Charles) Perry of Charlotte, Annette (Thomas) Sterling of San Antionio, TX, and Sandra Hayes of Charlotte, one brother-in-law, Herbert (Maxine) McKinney of Waxhaw, NC, a number of nephews, nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.