Kenneth Marshall Hayes

Kenneth Marshall Hayes, of Marietta, GA passed into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, April 19, 2024, at age 76. He was beloved by many, most of all his wife of 51 years, Page, and his two daughters, Samantha and Ashley, and their families. Ken was an exceptional person and gifted in many ways. He graduated from Lehigh University (and was quick to say it was by skin of his teeth) and excelled in the Navy as an A-4 attack pilot during the height of the Vietnam War. He loved his country and delighted in big fireworks displays- especially those he set off in the cul-de-sac with his grandchildren. He had a handsome, memorable presence and a deep, bass voice that resonated with command and compassion. He could tell a great tale- raising a toast on special occasions and blessing the meal during gatherings both large and small. It’s his voice we will miss the most- hearing him sing, teach, and laugh. As a commercial pilot, Ken was known for his public flight announcements, welcoming his passengers on approach into Atlanta with a history lesson of the city. Like the old Delta Airlines slogan, Ken loved to fly- and it showed. But much more than his job he loved all the people God placed into his care: family, neighbors, friends, and the many generations who came through his Sunday school classes and Bible studies, including the Monday morning East Cobb Men’s Fellowship and the JOY Bible Study Class at Roswell Presbyterian Church. With us he shared openly his struggles and his triumphs- always assuring us that God is working all of it for good (Romans 8:28). No one rocked his world more than Page, whom he met one summer while lifeguarding at the Warminster Swim Club. They grew up together and fell in love before the challenges of their time changed the course of so many lives. Page described him as right out of central casting and he was devoted to her, loving and serving her well. Together, they grew in faith, especially in the final years of Ken’s life. Ken said he preferred military combat to the suffering brought on by cancer and renal failure, but in love he continued to protect, trust, hope and persevere to the end (1 Corinthians 13:7). He was supported and uplifted by Page’s unwavering care and the love and assistance of neighbors and friends, including the Monday night Paradise Grill crew. As a family, we cherish the memories of earlier years. Ken was an expert planner of great adventures as we traveled all over the country. Our favorite times, though, were spent on Georgia and South Carolina lakes where we escaped the distractions of everyday life. For Ken and Page, retirement years at Lake Keowee were heaven on earth- aboard a 12 ft sailboat with their beloved Border Collie, Scout (adopted from Sam and Ashley), at the helm. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Evelyn Hayes. He is survived by his wife, Page Thomas Hayes and their two daughters, Samantha Fisher of Nashville, TN (husband Daniel Fisher and daughters Penelope and Tess) and Ashley Callahan of Griffin, GA (husband Eric Callahan and children Hayes and Airlie). He is also survived by his older brother, Charles Hayes (wife Carolyn), big sister, Carol Carrino, and beloved extended family. Anticipating his death, he prepared these words for us: “I am now in the place my heart has secretly longed for, the place where Christ is and reigns, worship is glorious, and the injustices and pain of the corrupted creation are no more.” Ken will be laid to rest with military honors at Georgia National Cemetery. A memorial service will be held Friday, May 10 at 11:00 a.m. at Roswell Presbyterian Church: 755 Mimosa Blvd. A reception will follow at the Brookwood Grill: 880 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Roswell, GA. We look forward to seeing you and hearing your stories. Ken supported and volunteered with countless charities throughout his life, including the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting FCA under Ken’s friends Hal Young and/or Tom Joyner.

Kenneth Marshall Hayes

October 21, 1947 - April 19, 2024