Mary Frances Stokes Hayes, 98, of Springfield, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025. A devoted wife, nurturing mother, endearing grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to all, Mary lived a long life anchored in love, faith, and service.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Warren G. Hayes, M.D.; her son, Rick; parents, Henry and Bertha Stokes; brothers Granville, Arnold (Chigger) & wife Rosalie, and Raymond & wife Faye; and sisters Geneva & husband Jim Cooksey, Helen & husband Homer Barbee, and Imogene & husband Romie Robertson.
Mary married the love of her life, Warren, on March 13, 1946, in Charlotte, Tennessee. Their 72 year marriage stood as a testament to steadfast love, partnership, and devotion. Together they raised their two children, Rick and Marilyn, and built a home filled with warmth, hospitality, and joy.
Mary was an educator. After earning a Bachelor’s degree from Austin Peay State University in Education, majoring in Home Economics, and graduate work at the University of Tennessee, she taught in the county school systems of Dickson, Humphrey, Roane, and Marshall, as well as the city schools of Memphis and Nashville. She taught school for many years, and after the family settled in Springfield in 1959, she dedicated her life to raising and nurturing her family.
A committed follower of Christ, Mary was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church and a faithful member of Springfield First United Methodist Church for 65 years. She participated in the Jim Porter Sunday School class and served on the worship committee. Even when she could no longer attend in person, she faithfully joined services online.
Her skill in homemaking reflected her artistry-whether through her sewing, decorating, cooking, or extending hospitality to all who enjoyed a meal at her table. Beyond home and family, Mary was active in her community, serving as a Girl Scout Troop leader and as a Cub Scout leader.
She was known for her wit, quick tongue, patience, and kindness, with a can-do spirit that made her always ready to help others while reluctant to ask for help herself.
Mary is survived by her daughter, Marilyn; her granddaughter, Krista; her great-granddaughter, Kendra; her brother, Jack Stokes; her sister-in-law, Shirley; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great-nephews whom she loved dearly.
Mary lived independently until the end, remaining sharp and engaged. She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her grace and hospitality, her keen mind and wit, and her unwavering love.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Union Cemetery in Dickson, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alive Hospice, Springfield First United Methodist Church, or to a charity of your choice.
This obituary was published by Austin & Bell Funeral Home.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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