Donald Ray Hayes, 76, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at his home following an illness. Graveside services were held on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville, MO.

Don was born August 1, 1948 in Joplin, MO, a son of George and Betty Faye (Dye) Hayes. Don grew up in Joplin and was a graduate of both Joplin High School and Missouri Southern State College where he studied sociology.

Don served in the Missouri Army National Guard for 33 years, retiring at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 in 2003. While they were both serving in Honduras, he met Georgia Marie Huskey, and they married in 1986. In 1988, the couple built their forever home in Harrisonville, MO, where they raised their only child, Meckenzie, and made many cherished memories until Georgia's passing in 2007.

Don married Kathy Marie (Hackler) in 2010. In this marriage, he gained 3 daughters and 5 grandchildren. Don and Kathy were inseparable, spending their days together boating at the lake, mowing the acreage and taking trips. They made lots of precious memories in their years together.

Don was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed time in his garden, boating, motorcycle riding and was an amateur radio hobbyist. He loved to travel and had a particular interest in the Mayan culture.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, George (2010) and Betty (2021) Hayes, and his late wife, Georgia (2007). He is survived by his wife, Kathy, of the home; his daughter, Meckenzie Hayes, of Columbia, MO; stepdaughters: Jennifer (Derek) Voliva, of Rock Springs, WY; Ashley George, of Lee's Summit, MO; and Megan (Justin) Unruh, of Belton, MO; five grandchildren: Cabriah Voliva, Coba Voliva, Tayton Unruh, Jayanna Unruh, and Grayson Norris; as well as, many loved ones and cherished friends.