John Kenneth Hayes, 100, of Shelbyville, IL, passed away at 8:11 am, Monday, December 22, 2025, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL. He was born February 21, 1925, in Prentice, IL, to the late Bird (Gardner) and the late Wesley Hayes.
After John’s marriage to the late Arline Holmes in 1947, he married the late Murlie Cody in 1968. He is also preceded in death by two brothers, Vernon and Russell; two sisters, Annabelle and Etta; and children, Jim, Robert, Albert, and Peggy.
John was a proud U.S. Navy veteran. Retiring at 58 from Pillsbury Mill, he enjoyed many years of fishing, hunting and boating alone or with family, friends or his dog, Pepper. Country music was a big part of his life through the years, singing and playing his guitar with his buddies and at events. Everyone loved him for his sense of humor, generosity and always being ready to help others.
Survivors include daughters, Cherie (Cliff) Schaefer, Kathy (Gene) Fickas and Kay Kerr; sons, Richard (Lois) Cody and Dan Cody; grandchildren, Charlene White, John White, April White, and Cliff Schaefer. Blessed with an extensive family, there are several other grandchildren, great grandchildren and many more nieces, nephews and cousins.
Graveside Service: 2:00 pm, Friday, January 2, 2025, at Camp Butler National Cemetery, with Pastor Mark Gifford officiating and where military honors will be conducted.
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