Audrey M. Hayes

Audrey M. Hayes of Cuba, Missouri, was born on March 4, 1922, in Pomona, Missouri, to Hugh and Louia (Pitman) Cover. She departed from this life peacefully on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Cuba Manor, reaching the remarkable age of 102.

Audrey's journey through life was marked by her deep love for family and community. She was united in marriage to her beloved husband, Henry L. Hayes, with whom she shared a beautiful life, raising their two cherished children, Ann and David. Together, they operated Hayes Shoe Store for an impressive forty-four years, becoming known for their warm service and Audrey’s incredible ability to remember each customer’s shoe size, a true testament to her caring spirit.

A devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Cuba, Audrey dedicated over fifty years to teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, imparting her wisdom and love of faith to countless children. Her many talents extended to her passion for quilting and baking, where she earned a special reputation for her delicious pies, particularly her famous coconut cream pie. Audrey and Henry were well-loved pillars of their community. They enjoyed evenings of friendly card games with friends Johnny and Lucille Giles.

Audrey's legacy is carried on by her loving family. She is preceded in death by her parents, her cherished husband Henry, and eight siblings, along with several sisters and brothers-in-law. 

She is survived by her two children, Ann (Gary) Branson of Cuba and Dr. David (Dr. Sharonne) Hayes of Rochester, MN; her four grandchildren, Jeff (Christi) Branson of St. Charles, Vickie (Michael) Wacker of Lake Elmo, MN, Andrew Hayes of San Francisco, and Sarah (Ben) Addicks of Woodbury, MN; and her four great-grandchildren, Audrey Branson, Alexa Branson, Henry Addicks, and Helen Addicks. Audrey also leaves behind a special sister-in-law, Deana Cover of Kansas City, as well as many treasured nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a host of friends who will carry her memory in their hearts.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, starting at 12:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Mizell Funeral Home, officiated by Pastor Bob Knight. Audrey will be laid to rest at Kinder Cemetery in Cuba, Missouri.

In honor of her legacy, the family suggests memorials be made to Dry Creek Baptist Church, 600 Bray Dr. Willow Springs, Missouri 65793.

The Mizell Funeral Home of Cuba is honored to serve the family of Audrey M. Hayes, celebrating a life filled with love, service, and cherished memories.