Ronald Hayes

Capt. (Ret.) Ronald Lee Hayes, of Garner, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on April 18th, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on April 6th, 1951, in Winston-Salem, NC, to Thomas Lee Hayes and Tabitha Bridges Hayes, Ronnie's life was marked by dedication, service, and love for his family, community, and most of all, his love for Jesus.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Wanda Branon Hayes; their children, Angela Hayes Hodges (Arthur) and Ashley Hayes Chassereau (Matthew); and his cherished grandchildren, Joshua Hayes Hodges, Tabitha Hodges, and Kaylynn Chassereau.

Ronnie was raised in Winston-Salem, where he graduated from Parkland High School in 1969. A gifted athlete, he excelled in football, basketball, and especially baseball, where he earned All-American honors as a pitcher. His talent on the field earned him multiple scholarship opportunities. It was also during these years that he met his soulmate, Wanda. The two began dating at the young age of 14 and were married shortly after Wanda's high school graduation.

After high school, Ronnie worked at R.J. Reynolds before answering the call to serve his community. He graduated from the North Carolina Highway Patrol School in August of 1974 and was stationed in Wake County. Over the years, Ronnie's career with the Highway Patrol was distinguished by his exceptional service. He was entrusted with serving on the executive security detail for Governor Jim Hunt, and later, as Senior Security Aide for Governor James G. Martin. His work took him around the world, with assignments in China, Japan, Germany, Taiwan, England, and Australia. Ronnie's career flourished as he earned several promotions, ultimately rising to the position of Captain, Troop-C Commander, where he continued to lead with integrity, dedication, and wisdom.

Throughout his career, Ronnie achieved numerous milestones, including graduating from the Advanced Management and Organizational Program at NC State University, as well as completing a leadership program at UNC. He was honored to receive the prestigious Long Leaf Pine Award from Governor James Martin, a testament to his lasting impact on the state of North Carolina. After 29 years of service, Ronnie retired from the NC Highway Patrol in 2003.

Ronnie's passions extended beyond his career. He enjoyed family vacations, particularly trips to Gatlinburg and Myrtle Beach, and was an avid fan of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. A lover of the outdoors, he spent countless hours on the golf course and casting a line in search of crappie and bass. Later in life, he was affectionately known as Tom Cat and enjoyed teaching the Bible online for several years.

Above all, Ronnie found joy in spending time with Wanda. Their favorite pastime was taking long drives to observe wildlife, especially deer. Their love and devotion to one another were evident in every moment they shared.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Larry and Sharon Wood for their unwavering support during Ronnie's illness, and to the staff at The Wellington Nursing Home for the exceptional care they provided in his final year and a half. The family also wishes to express their gratitude to Governor James G. Martin and First Lady Dorothy "Dottie" Martin for their kindness, and to the entire North Carolina Highway Patrol for their continued support over the years.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Bryan Lee Funeral Home in Garner, NC. A service will follow at 2:00 PM, led by Pastor Kevin Hinton, with a graveside burial at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Clayton, NC, at 3:00 PM.

Ronnie will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of service, love, and devotion to his family will endure forever. We now know he is fully restored in body and spirit, at peace with our Heavenly Father.