James Monroe Hayes

James Monroe Hayes, 90, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025 at Wendover Hospice in Shelby with his loving family by his side. 

He was born in Bryson City, North Carolina on January 4, 1935 to the late Pink and Pauline Hayes. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy Hayes; sisters, Ruby Kirkland and Ethel White; and his grandson, David Phillips, Jr. 

James spent his early childhood in Bryson City and later grew up in Stanley. He worked as a tent maker for vendors making canopies by hand. He enjoyed fishing and going to the beach. James was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who left many happy memories to be cherished by all who knew and loved him. 

 He is survived by his children, Michael Hayes (Lillie), Pamela Wright (Jerry), and Lynn Nichols (Kenny); sister, Gail Harding; 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. 

 A graveside service will take place on Wednesday February 12, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in the mausoleum with Pastor Phil Meadows officiating at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery 1508 Charles Raper Jonas Highway, Mount Holly, North Carolina. 

 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wendover Hospice House, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, North Carolina 28150 or to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

 The family would like to express a heartfelt thank-you to Denise Cobb, Kayla Beam, the staff at TerraBella, Cramer Mountain, and the staff at Wendover Hospice.

 Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

 Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com