Genevia Hayes

Genevia Mae Hayes, daughter of Alphonso Lacey and Carrie Brown Lacey, was born March 25, 1917, in Jackson. She was one in a family of nine children, five boys and four girls. All have preceded her in death.

Genevia shared her life with us until Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2005, when the Lord took her to her heavenly home.

At an early age she professed her faith in Jesus Christ as her personal savior and became a member of St. John A.M.E. Church in Jackson, and later in life became a faithful member of St. James A.M.E. Church. She was a member of NAACP, Successful Homemakers Club and Golden Age Club.

She was united in holy matrimony in 1943 to David E. Hayes, who passed April 13, 1983. One son, David Rodney (deceased), was born to this union.

Genevia was a loving daughter, mother, wife, sister and aunt. She was a matriarch who listened to everyone's joys and sorrows. She was never too busy to encourage or generously contribute possible solutions. She quietly taught many of us how to live as upright and caring human beings.

Fond memories of her full and rich life will be cherished by two sisters-in-law, Alberta (Raymond) Lacey of Cape Girardeau, Etta (Wayne) Coleman of Cincinnati, Ohio; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

She and her sweet smile will be greatly missed. Her life story could be summarized in these words: love, tolerance and faith.

Friends may call at St. James AME Church in Cape Girardeau from noon to service time today.

The funeral will be at 1 p.m. today at the church, with the Rev. Debra Thornton officiating. Burial will be in Fairmount Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. James Church.

Cracraft-Miller Funeral Home in Jackson is in charge of arrangements.