Robert "Sarge" Duane Hayes, Sr.

Robert "Sarge" Duane Hayes, Sr., age 66, of Vergennes, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Monday, August 10, 1959 in Mt Vernon, Illinois, a son of Margaret Fern (Cook) and Fred Ruben Hayes, Sr. He married the love of his life, Kimberly Kay Higgerson in Nashville, Illinois on December 06, 1996. Together, they shared more than twenty-nine years of marriage and precious memories.

Robert, a dedicated patriot and family man, left a lasting impact on all who knew him. A 20-year proud United States Air Force veteran and crew chief, he retired as a Tech Sergeant, serving with distinction in Desert Storm and Desert Shield, and training with Special Ops.

Beyond his military service, Robert's passions were plentiful. He enjoyed running his beagles and served as the field trial secretary at King City Beagle Club. His mechanical skills made him a master boat mechanic, and he loved getting his hands dirty with antique cars and racing with his grandson.

But family was Robert's true joy. He cherished time with his grandchildren, often donning a Santa suit to spread joy, continuing the legacy of his wife's grandfather. His quiet strength and kindness made him a beloved fixture in their lives. Robert had a way of making everyone feel seen and heard, and his quiet thoughtfulness touched countless lives.
A hunter, fisher, and outdoorsman, Robert lived life to the fullest. He was a constant presence in his family's lives, always ready to lend a hand or offer a listening ear, or provide a warm smile. His sharp sarcastic humor could bring laughter to even the toughest moments, but it was his compassion, empathy, and generosity that truly defined him.
Robert's love and legacy will continue to inspire and guide all that knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife- Kimberly Kay (Higgerson) Hayes of Vergennes; four children- Michelle (William) Schemonia of Vergennes, Robert "Bobby" (Beth) Hayes, Jr. of Sandstone, Minnesota, Chad Pyron of Tamaroa, and Chelsey (Chris) Harris of Du Quoin; twelve grandchildren- Andrew (Melissa), Joseph (Leigha), Jacob, Peyton, Jace, Aspen, Ayla, Kathleen, Alethea, Xavier, Neal (Maggie), and Erik (Kaitlin); seven great-grandchildren- Weston, Maggie, Addie, Kennedy, Zeke, Jack, and George; brother- Fred (Vicki) Hayes, Jr.; sister- Sue (Dan) Lovin; father-in-law- Harry (Martha) Higgerson; mother-in-law- Relda Marlow; sister-in-law- Kandy (Matt) Collins; several nieces, nephews, and a host of extended family members and cherished friends.

He is preceded in death by parents, one brother- Mike Hayes, and father-in-law- Floyd Bruno.

There will be a time of visitation on Friday, April 24, 2026, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home, located at 11 South Hickory Street in Du Quoin.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026, 10:00 AM at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Du Quoin with Austin Marlow officiating. Military honors will be rendered by the Du Quoin VFW Post 513, the Du Quoin American Legion Post 647, and the United States Air Force military funeral detail teams.

Memorial contributions may be directed to SIH Cancer Center or Hospice of Southern Illinois.

Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Du Quoin is honored to serve the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.maxtonrosado.com or call 618-542-2020 for more information.

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