William Joseph "Bill" Hayes

William Joseph “Bill” Hayes, 83, of Lexington, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 19, 2026. He was the beloved husband of Debbie Hayes (née Estes), his partner and best friend for 33 years. 

Bill was born on September 1, 1942, in Arlington, Virginia, to the late Robert Hayes and Happy Hayes (née Hunter). A faithful member of Pax Christi Catholic Church, he lived a life marked by kindness, humility, and a genuine love for people. 

For many in Lexington, Bill was a familiar and welcome face at Fresh Market in the Lansdowne Shoppes. During his seventeen years there, he became much more than an employee. He greeted customers by name, remembered their stories, shared a laugh whenever he could, and made people feel seen. Many came to the store looking forward to seeing Bill as much as anything on their shopping list. He had a gift for brightening someone’s day, often without even realizing it. 

Bill enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He loved old movies, especially Westerns, and could happily spend an evening watching them. He wasn’t a man who sought the spotlight, but he quietly built a life centered on family, faith, hard work, and treating people well. 

More than anything, Bill will be remembered for his gentle spirit and kind heart. He made people feel comfortable, welcomed, and valued. His presence brought warmth to those around him, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him. 

In addition to his wife, Debbie, Bill is survived by his daughter, Laura Mae (Paul) Kelly; his son, Hunter (Erin) Hayes; his stepson, Brian McKnight; his brother, Robert (Mary Margaret) Hayes; and his cherished grandchildren, John Thomas Kelly and Kellen Hayes. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Anne Gardener. 

In accordance with his wishes, Bill will be cremated. A Funeral Mass will be held at Pax Christi Catholic Church. Service details will be posted as they become available. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hope Center.