Barris Hayes was born in Palestine, Texas on January 7, 1921. Having spent his early childhood years there, a young man, he enlisted in the Army to serve his country in WWll . His tour took him to Germany ; where he was stationed at The European Theater. Honorably discharged, he moved to Boston, met and married “Margie” (Margaret Karagosian) and began his lifelong career in the Hotel-Restaurant Industry. Barris and Margaret had two children, Barbara-Jean and David; and were married for 40 years, until her death in 1992.
Barris took an early retirement from the food industry, to be able to spend time with his wife and his grandchildren, Vanessa, Stephanie and Marcus and to travel to Texas for “family reunions”. He put to use his golf clubs presented to him from his 25 years of management, cooking and catering and thus began his love of golf. He was Tiger Woods’ biggest fan! On any given day, he might be found on the green at Franklin Park. He had his favorites…sports, teams ,foods and TV programs. He read the Boston Herald Newspaper daily and enjoyed a “Bud in a bottle with a cold glass” whenever he went out to eat. Having served in so many capacities for so many years he enjoyed being served from time to time; however, it was his preference to serve others.He attended Onset Foursquare Church when he was able. He enjoyed sitting at Cape Cod Canal watching the steamboats go through the canal, reminiscing about summers on the Cape with his family.
Over the years his only challenge were health “annoyances” as he would refer to them. He kept his faith and battled and would come though victorious. As his years in age increased ; his stamina and strong will to live will not decrease. He remained independent, sharp witted and a “gentleman.”
On May 30 after a brief illness, he fought his last battle. At the West Roxbury Veteran’s Hospital. With dignity, respect and honor; surrounded by his family , Barris Hayes peacefully went to be with his wife. He was 98 years young. He is survived by his children Barbara-Jean Andrade and David Hayes. His grandchildren, Vanessa Leigh Andrade, Stephanie Lyn Andrade and Marcus David Hayes. (Cape Cod and Boston ). He also leaves his favorite nieces and nephews Angielena Polk, Icy Daniels, Barris Anderson (Texas) M L Anderson (Louisiana) Louise Bodozian (Florida) and a host of greats and great-great nieces and nephews.
Visiting hour on Thursday June 6, from 12 noon until 1:00 pm in The Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St. West Roxbury. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home beginning at 1:00 pm. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Interment Oak Lawn Cemetery.
“ I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge will award to me on that day…”
2 Timothy 4:7-8