James Newton Hayes

HAYES, JAMES NEWTON Born January 7, 1923 at home in Dallas to Lee & Lena Hayes. Passed February 6, 2012 at home in Richardson. Preceded in death by his wife of 64 years and high school sweetheart, Lois Watts Hayes; brothers, Lee Hayes, Jr., Elmer Hayes, Morris Henry Hayes; and sisters, Irene Young, Florence Davis, Cora Roberts, Alice Young. Survived by daughters, Carol McDowell (Ron) of Dallas, Sharon Swink (Gordon), and Cindy McCarthy (Dennis), all of Richardson; grandchildren, K.C. Swink of Seoul, S Korea, Kathryn Lopez (Aaron) of Rowlett, Lt. James McCarthy (Elizabeth) of New Windsor, NY, and Robert McCarthy of Richardson; sister, Margaret Cox of Dallas; and many nieces and nephews. 1941 graduate of Woodrow Wilson HS, served as Class President 3 years, and ROTC Captain. Lettered in football (All-City), baseball (Co-Captain, All City), and track. Speed on the football field earned him newspaper nickname "Jackrabbit Jim". Joined the Army in 1943 serving in the European Theater in the 146th Armored Signal Co. in the 6th Armored Division under the command of General Patton. Awarded the Silver Star, Certificate of Merit and EAME Campaign Medal with 5 Bronze Stars. Was at Buchenwald shortly after liberation and found the experience profoundly moving. Had great pride in his wartime service. Worked for John E. Mitchell Co., rising to Plant Superintendent and Vice President of Manufacturing. Over 40 years of employment with JEMCO yielded a strong group of friends who still meet monthly. Lifelong member of East Dallas Christian Church, served as Slayter Class President and as Deacon, and most recently a member of the Sander's Class. Over 25 years he volunteered with the Church Share Pantry. He volunteered with "Meals on Wheels". A member of the inaugural trip for "Honor Flight DFW," joining 35 other WWII veterans for a trip to Washington, DC. The group visited the WWII Memorial, of which he was a Charter Member. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00pm, Wednesday, February 8th at Restland Funeral Home. Graveside service at 1:00pm, Thursday, February 9th at Restland Memorial Park followed by a memorial service at 3:00pm at East Dallas Christian Church, 629 N. Peak St. in Dallas. Donations may be made to East Dallas Christian Church, Honor Flight DFW, or the charity of your choice.