Betty Lucille (McCoy) Hayes, 95, of Flat Rock, IL passed away on March 1, 2026, in the comfort of her home. She was born on August 17, 1930, in Huntingburg, IN. Betty carried a deep sense of compassion for others after losing her mother at the young age of 49 to breast cancer. She was only 15 when she stated caring for her 8-year-old brother, George. After graduating from Monroe City High School, Monroe City, IN in the class of 1948 she chose a career in nursing which led her to work at Good Samaritan Hospital, Vincennes, IN. She was also an office nurse for Dr. Thomas Barrett.
She married Max E. Hayes on October 14, 1951, at the Monroe City Presbyterian Church Monroe City, IN. Max and Betty enjoyed over 74 years of marriage. Betty was a devoted mother to her four children, raising them with patience, wisdom, and a quiet strength that became the foundation of their lives. Betty was a true role model- humble, strong, with endless giving. She taught her family the value of hard work, kindness, and consistency. When she wasn’t working at the hospital, you would find her in her kitchen cooking for her family. Her specialty was making pies for Max and whoever was helping him farm that day.
She is survived by her husband, Max E. Hayes, Flat Rock, IL. Her children Janie & Jim McCoy, Palestine, IL, Mark Hayes, Brownsburg, IN, Brent Hayes, Flat Rock, IL, Michael Hayes, Flat Rock, IL. Her grandchildren & their spouses, Clint & Colleen McCoy, Eric & Erin McCoy, Matt & Jennifer McCoy all from Palestine, IL, Chanse & Mckenzie Hayes, Hixson, TN, Cole & Nicolina Hayes, Coral Springs, FL. Her great-grandchildren William Rowen Hayes & Shiloh Hayes; Ireland Hayes, Camp Hayes, Luke Hayes; Clair McCoy & Bridgett McCoy; Colby McCoy & Campbell McCoy.
A happy memory was sharing McDonald’s milkshakes with some of the great-grandchildren, their laughter and smiles filling her heart. Betty’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the family she nurtured and the quiet enduring kindness and grace she shared with the world. Her family will carry her memory forward with gratitude and love.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Marlin & Lena McCoy, her brothers George Marlin McCoy, Boy McCoy, John McCoy, her sister Mildred Robison, her father-in-law & mother-in-law Hillary & Gladys Hayes.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
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