Daryl Gene Hayes

Daryl Gene Hayes, 68, of Gore, Oklahoma, passed away on February 9, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Born on February 5, 1957, in Wichita, Kansas, Daryl was a son of Emel (Hawkins) Hayes and Arthur Hayes.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including fishing, camping, and following Nascar, but it was in the company of his grandchildren that he truly shone. Daryl was a devoted family man and took great pride in nurturing his family. He married Donna Sue (Burrow) Hayes on April 10, 2019, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. 

Daryl was a mechanic who made significant contributions working at the City of Gore Water Treatment Plant and for John Montgomery. Additionally, he operated the Stop to Shop Junk Sale at Webbers Falls, a venture that allowed him to engage with the community.

Daryl was renowned for his wonderful fish fries, which became a beloved tradition among family and friends. These gatherings were more than just meals; they were occasions filled with laughter, stories, and the bonds of kinship.

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna, of the home; two daughters, Christia Acker of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, and Brittany James and Jessie of Gore, Oklahoma; one son, Jeremy Girty of Kansas; 17 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; three sisters, Charlotte Casinger of Gore, Oklahoma, Sandy Laymon of Braggs, Oklahoma, and Sharon Sanders of Leon, Kansas; three brothers, Melvin Hayes, Art Hayes, and Steve Hayes, all of Gore, Oklahoma; and many other relatives and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents; and one sister, Tammy Swimmer.

A gathering for family and friends will take place at 1:00 PM on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Agent Millsap Event Center in Gore, Oklahoma.