David Hayes, 76, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026, at Lindside Health Care. He was born on January 11, 1950, and was the son of the late Elishah and Gladys Haynes. Following his graduation from Bramwell High School, David earned a Bachelor’s degree in History from West Virginia State College. He later attended Bluefield State College, where he earned a second Bachelor’s degree in Nursing in which to care for his wife. David continued to serve his community as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department at Bluefield Regional Hospital.

David found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He especially enjoyed fishing, bird watching, camping, and listening to bluegrass music. He was also known for wearing his infamous bibbed overalls. His unique personality, warm spirit, and genuine kindness touched the lives of many, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

David was preceded in death by his parents, Elisha-Paul and Gladys; brothers, James and Michael; sister, Dawn; and his former wife and the mother of his son, Judith Karen Staples Haynes. In addition to his brother Paul, and sister Pam, those left to cherish his memory include his son, Zachary Haynes and wife, Leila; grandchildren, Laken Dillon, Zachary Chappell, Derrick Rathell, and Brianne McKinney and husband, Brandon; great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Kayden, and Delayna; and his beloved dog Ozark. 

In keeping with David’s wishes, he will be cremated. A Memorial Service celebrating his life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Roselawn Cemetery in Princeton, West Virginia.

David lived his life, his way. His love of nature, love of 'hillbilly' life, and simply being himself regardless of when or where, has left its influence on the hearts of his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him.