James “Jim” Wilmer Hayes, 71, of Brazil, Indiana, passed away on February 25, 2021 from complications of lung cancer.

He was born on August 26, 1949, to the late Wilmer and Eva (Cooksey) Hayes.

A graduate of Van Buren High School with the class of 67’, he went on to receive his Associates in Aircraft Systems Maintenance Technology from the Community College of the Air Force.

He served his country for 38 years in the US Air Force where his coworkers knew him as “Ike”. As an aircraft technician he achieved the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. Jim deployed multiple times overseas to the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and nearly every state in the Union.

He was a member of the Brazil First United Methodist Church, the National Rifle Association, and the American Legion Post 2.

Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Deanna (Perkins) Hayes, his children: Carissa (Hayes) Lovett and Brad (Elizabeth) Hayes; three grandchildren Chloe, Marek, and Ellia Hayes; siblings: Debbie (Gale) Heiliger, Rick (Becky) Hayes, Diane (Andy) Gill, Ronnie Hayes, Mike (Sienna) Hayes; brother-in-law Jordie (Debbie) Brown; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He enjoyed following NASCAR and his greatest joy was watching his grandkids in various activities.

Per his wishes cremation has been chosen with no visitation. A private memorial gathering will be held at a later date.

If so desired, donations can be sent to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation JDRF 200 Vesey Street, 28th Floor New York, NY 10281 online at https://www2.jdrf.org/

French Funeral Home, in Brazil, has been entrusted with his care.