Mr. Gerald Mitchell Hayes, age 72, of Lumberton, passed away Sunday, March 17, 2019, at home. He was born on April 4, 1946, in Robeson County to the late Martin J. Hayes, Sr. and the late Edna Earl Lamb Hayes. He enjoyed a life of farming.

Along with his parents, he was also preceded in death by a sister, Kathy Hayes Edwards.

He is survived by his wife, Melba Jean Barnes Hayes of the home; one daughter, Jenny Hayes of Lumberton; one brother, Jennings Hayes (Anne) of Lumberton; a very special nephew, Joe Hayes (Crystal) of Bladenboro; two very special nieces, Amanda Edwards Tyner (Kevin Graham) of Lumberton and Colie Hayes of Greensboro; three great-nephews: Stephen Hayes of Bladenboro, Dalton Tyner of Lumberton, and Brisson Whitlock of Greensboro; one great-niece, Blythe Whitlock of Greensboro; and two very special friends, Heather Whitlock of Greensboro and Hansler "Hawk" McCollum of Orrum.

The family would also like to extend a special acknowledgement and recognition to Jean's siblings, nieces and nephews, and other extended family for all of their love and support throughout the years.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, March 19, 2019, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Floyd Mortuary & Crematory, Inc. in Lumberton.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 20, 2019, at 2:00 PM at Floyd Memorial Chapel in Lumberton with Rev. Carl Pevia and Mr. Johnny Bullard officiating. Burial will follow at Floyd Memory Gardens in Lumberton.