Willie R Haynes

Willie R. Haynes May 4, 1930 – August 16, 2026

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He was known for his easygoing nature, his even temper, his kind heart, and his ability to make people feel comfortable and welcome.

Willie R. Haynes, 96, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, in Greeley, Colorado. He was born on May 4, 1930, in Mt. Pleasant, Arkansas, to Alvin and Velia May Haynes, who preceded him in death.

Willie grew up in Melbourne, Arkansas, and at the age of 16 moved to Michigan, where he began building the life that would be filled with family, hard work, adventure, and many cherished memories.

While working as a short-order cook, Willie met his first wife, Betty Connors. They married and were blessed with three sons, Dan, Skip, and Tim. Willie began his career as a truck driver with Yerington Construction Company and, through his determination and strong work ethic, worked his way up to foreman. He eventually retired from Yerington Construction Company.

Willie loved spending time with his family, especially camping and enjoying the outdoors. After retirement, he and Betty moved to Clinton, Arkansas, where they purchased June’s Cafe. Two years later, they returned to Michigan, where they purchased a motor home and began many years of RV adventures. Willie and Betty traveled throughout the country, making countless memories along the way. One of their favorite places was the area near Bandera, Texas, where they enjoyed many happy days together.

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He truly was a favorite of everyone and will be remembered for the warmth, humor, and goodness he brought into the lives of those around him.

Betty passed away in June 2014. Later that same year, during Christmas, Willie met Mitzi Jones while playing Bingo. Their friendship blossomed into love, and they were married in 2016.

In 2019, Willie and Mitzi moved to Greeley, Colorado. There, they spent his remaining years together, enjoying the beautiful changing seasons of Colorado and the simple pleasures of life together.

Willie was loved by everyone who knew him. He was known for his easygoing nature, his even temper, his kind heart, and his ability to make people feel comfortable and welcome. He truly was a favorite of everyone and will be remembered for the warmth, humor, and goodness he brought into the lives of those around him.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin Haynes and Velia May Haynes; his first wife, Betty Haynes; sisters, Maude “Aggie” Walker; Jamie “Jonnie” Haynes; brother, J C Haynes; and his son, Dan Haynes.

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Willie leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love that will live on through his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mitzi Jones; sons, Keith “Skip” Haynes and Tim Haynes; daughter-in-law, Jan Neeley; grandchildren, Angie Haynes, Erik Haynes, and Jeremy Haynes; and great-grandchildren, Devon Haynes, Davis Haynes, and Great Great Grandchild Decklyn Haynes.

Willie leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love that will live on through his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved. 

Interment information will be updated at a later time.