William Ray Hayes

William Ray Hayes

Age 93 of Crest Hill, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at Lightways Hospice Care in Joliet with his daughter and son-in-law by his side.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years: Millie (nee Foschi) who passed away in 2008; his parents: Jacob Dumont and Beulah Hayes; brothers: John Lewis Berlin, Robert Fielder and Thomas Hayes; sister: Frances Hayes; brothers and sisters-in-law: Al, Ed, and Joe Foschi, Marie (Phil) Lavazza and Shirley (Richard) Lilek, and nephew: Eddie Foschi.

He is survived by his devoted daughter: Janet (John) Brandolino; granddaughter: Natalie Rae (Jereme) Leahy; “his mighty fine” great-grandsons: Tyler and Blake Leahy; sister-in-law: Phyllis (George) Comerford, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Ray was born in Lutts, Tennessee and resided in Crest Hill for 67 years. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and served during the Korean War. Ray worked as a skilled carpenter for Local Union 174. He loved his garden, beagles and hunting. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to his niece, Brianne Foschi-Flink who helped with his care and visits.

A visitation will be held on Monday, January 9, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. until time of funeral service beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road in Joliet. Interment will follow and Ray will be laid to rest with his wife at St. Joseph Cemetery in Joliet.