Mary Lee Hayes

Mary Lee Hayes, a matriarch of grace, faith, and quiet strength, was born on
November 13, 1918, in Jackson, Mississippi, to Eathey and Charles Howell, and
lovingly guided in her early years by her bonus father, William H. Lee. As the second of
five children, Mary grew up surrounded by two sisters and two brothers whose
closeness, loyalty, and shared experiences laid the foundation for a life rooted in family
and compassion.

While still young, Mary’s family moved north to Detroit, Michigan, settling in the vibrant
Eastern Market district—a community that would become central to her life’s story. She
was educated in the Detroit Public School system and proudly graduated from Miller
High School. Her connection to Miller High remained a cherished part of her identity; at
the time of her passing, Mary was honored as the oldest living graduate of the school, a
remarkable testament to her longevity, resilience, and deep Detroit roots.
Service to others was not simply something Mary did—it was who she was. After
completing her education, she found her calling in hospitality, dedicating more than two
decades to the esteemed Joe Muer Group. Known for her warmth, reliability, and welcoming spirit, Mary left an impression on colleagues and patrons alike.

Retirement did not diminish her desire to care for others. She went on to serve as a home
healthcare aide, providing compassionate support to family members and friends,
offering comfort, dignity, and kindness in moments when they were needed most.
Family was the center of Mary’s world and the source of her greatest joy. With her first
husband, the late George Ellis, Sr., she lovingly raised six children, instilling in them the
values of faith, perseverance, and love. Through them, her legacy grew to include
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren—each new
generation a living reflection of her wisdom and nurturing spirit.

Later in life, Mary found love again and married Aubrey Hayes. Their union was one of
companionship and devotion, and they remained lovingly united until his passing in
1988.

Mary’s faith was the anchor of her life. A devoted member of Tabernacle Missionary
Baptist Church, she lived her beliefs through service, humility, and generosity. Her faith
guided her through every season and was evident in the gentle strength she shared
with everyone she encountered.

In her quieter moments, Mary found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She appreciated the
beauty of nature, found peace in music, enjoyed day trips with her community, and
faithfully read the bible and daily newspaper. A devoted word-search enthusiast, she
delighted in the calm challenge of each puzzle. Above all, she cherished time spent with
her family—moments of laughter, conversation, and togetherness that brought her
profound happiness.

Mary Lee Hayes lived a life defined by enduring faith, tireless service, and boundless
love. Her presence enriched her family, strengthened her community, and touched
countless lives. 

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Eathey and Charles (bonus father - William);
husband, Aubrey; brothers, Charles and Marcus; sisters, Rosie (Clarence) and Mamie
(Grady); daughters, Gertrude, Saundra (Thomas) and Rochelle; son, Raymond;
granddaughter, Tracey; grandsons, Kevin, Labaron and Edward.
She is survived by her son, George, Jr.; daughter, Brenda; granddaughters, Brandy
(Maurice), Marzina (Steven), Alexis; grandsons, Brennan (Terinna), Kim (Carol), El,
Raymond (Don’aa), Steven, Allen and Allante’; great-granddaughters, Aiesha, Tiara,
Jasmine, Demetria, Lauren and Sydney; great-grandsons, James, Brian (Shelly),
Steven, Virdane, Jamier, Kendra, J'Von, Joshua, Robert, D'Mario and Darius and a host
of great-great granddaughters, great-great grandsons, nieces, nephews and other
family members who will greatly miss her. Though she has gone from our sight, her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Lee Hayes, please visit our floral store.