Williams Hayes
On Sunday, June 11, 1967, William Thomas Hayes entered the world with a strong cry announcing his arrival, and from that point on, he was loved by family, friends, and associates.
Born to proud parents, Laura Cornelia Hayes and Charlie Matthews, Jr., William was preceded in death by both parents and one sister, Nina Delores Hearne-Hopkins.
William was educated in the Huntsville City School System and was a graduate of J.O. Johnson High School. He furthered his education by receiving an Associate’s degree from Calhoun Community College.
William had a strong work ethic from an incredibly young age and was always sharpening his body and mind. He began learning the art of Taekwondo at an early age and continued his training to become an instructor. In that same vain, he joined the United States Marine Corps (Semper Fi), serving for four years, and upon his return home, he applied and was accepted to the Huntsville City Police Department, a job he loved, but, because he desired more, William opened his own investigation firm, HEI Investigations, which he operated for more than twenty years. In this business, he provided private security for some high-profile entertainers and security for local businesses. William investigated many cases for local attorneys and private individuals, as well. William was an avid poker player and could be found playing in tournaments around the world, and he loved to travel, both domestically and internationally. It was a life well-lived.
William leaves to cherish and remember fondly: his wife, Barbara Hayes; four children, Aubery Hayes (North Charleston, SC), Miles Hayes (Atlanta, GA), Asia Kelley-Hayes, and William Thomas Hayes, Jr. (Huntsville, AL); one grandson, Marsellis King Hayes (Atlanta, GA); three sisters, Annie Harris (Huntsville, AL), Loretta Smith (Atlanta, GA), and Sharon Shuman (Madison, AL); two brothers, James Earl Smith (Huntsville, AL) and Alexander Smith (Orlando, FL); a special friend who was more like a brother, K.T. Tanner (Huntsville, AL); one godson, Tervon Graham (Knoxville, TN); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Many of William’s close friends are members of the Huntsville City Police Department and other communities around the city and state.