Terry Alan Hayes

     It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father and grandfather, Terry Alan Hayes, age 76, of Ithaca, Michigan. He passed away on March 19, 2026, with his children and grandchildren by his side at the MyMichigan Medical Center in Alma, MI.
     Terry was born on April 28, 1949, in Ithaca, Michigan, to Fred J. Hayes and Bernice Emma Durfee Hayes. Terry was raised with a strong sense of family, faith, and work ethic on the Hayes farm that remained with him throughout his life. He graduated from Ithaca High School in 1967. He married the love of his life, Helen Collie, on December 27, 1969, at the Church of God in Ithaca, MI. Terry honorably served in the National Guard for four years after graduating from high school. A hardworking and dedicated provider, Terry spent many years working as a car mechanic, part-time janitor, and truck driver. He later retired from custodial maintenance work for the Gratiot-Isabella County RESD.
     A man of deep faith, Terry was baptized in 1976 and was a longtime member of the Ithaca Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he served in many capacities over the years. His faith guided how he lived and the care he showed for others.
     Terry was a beloved father, grandfather, and steady presence in the lives of all who knew him. A quiet leader, he was the rock of his family, strong, dependable, and always there when he was needed most. His love was shown not only in words but through his constant support, steady guidance, and faithful presence. He found great joy in his family, especially in his children and grandchildren. One of the things he loved most was attending their sporting events, programs, and special occasions.  Always with a video camera in hand, he faithfully captured memories that his family will treasure for years to come. Being present for those he loved meant everything to him.
     Terry and Helen built a life centered on love, commitment, and family. Terry is survived by his three children: Conrad (Sherry) Hayes of Ithaca, MI, and their children Savana and Aubriel; Ryan (Suzi) Hayes of Berrien Springs, MI, and their children Carter, Christiana, and Cadance; and Shannon (Bill) Brown of Alma, MI, and children Laurel (Maverick), Michael, Izabelle, and Olivia. He is also survived by his brothers Kenneth Hayes and Richard Hayes, and his sister Rosalie Davis, along with many extended family members. Helen preceded him in death, along with his sisters Lois Lott, Freida Brownridge, Carol Boyle, and Laurel Husted; his brother Vincent Hayes; and his parents.
     We wish to express our sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff of 2 West at MyMichigan Medical Center in Alma for the loving and compassionate care they showed. We truly believe God worked through their hands and hearts to bring comfort and peace in his final days. We also wish to thank the many friends and family who prayed for him during this time.
     He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his deep love for family, and the way he made those around him feel supported and safe. His life was a gift, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the many precious memories he leaves behind and in the lasting example of love, devotion, and strength that he gave so freely.
     In following Terry’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the Ithaca Seventh-day Adventist Church, 935 N. Pine River St., Ithaca, Michigan.
     Memorials may be made to the Ithaca Seventh-day Adventist Church. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.