Mr. Gerald Eugene Hayes, age 72, of Summerville, Georgia passed away Thursday, April 26, 2012 at his residence following an extended illness.

Mr. Hayes was born in Trion, Georgia on June 1, 1939, the youngest child of the late James Elbert Hayes and Lottie Christol Hayes. He was a 1957 graduate of Trion High School, where he played football and basketball. Following High School, Mr. Hayes enlisted in the United States Navy, where he specialized in electronics. After his discharge in 1962, he went to work for Warner Robins Air Force Base in the civil service division. Mr. Hayes was a member of the Trion First Baptist Church and was preceded in death by two brothers, James Alec Hayes and Daniel Lee Hayes.

Mr. Hayes is survived by his wife, Loretta Worsham Hayes; daughters and son-in-law, Margaret Loard of Athens, GA and Kathryne and Geoff Rice of Birmingham; brother and sister-in-law, William B. “Billy” Hayes; sister and brother-in-law, Elizabeth “Beta” and J.W. Greenwood; the light of his life, granddaughter, Emily Kathryne Rice of Birmingham; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Graveside and Interment Services for Mr. Hayes will be held Sunday, April 29, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. in the West Hill Cemetery with Rev. Rob Pierce officiating.

Pallbearers will be Robin Greenwood, Steve Lanier, Jimmy Hayes, David Hayes, Robert Hayes and Benny Hayes. Honorary Pallbearers will be Boyce Dooley, Lester Griffith, Charles McCloud and Patrick Groover.

Mr. Hayes will be in state at the Mason Funeral Home and the family will receive friends Sunday afternoon from 12:00 Noon until 1:30 P.M.