James "Jim" Alton Hayes

JAMES “JIM” ALTON HAYES, age 76 of Thorsby, passed away on March 10, 2026 at his residence. He was born in Bessemer, Alabama on July 9, 1949, the son of the late James William Hayes and the late Sarah Marie Crumpton Hayes.

Jim spent many years working as a logistics manager, where he was known for his reliability, dedication, and strong work ethic. He believed in the value of hard work and faithfully provided for his family throughout his life.

Beyond his career, Jim had a deep love for the church and for music. For many years he faithfully served as minister of music in several area congregations, sharing his love for gospel music and helping lead worship through song. His ministry touched many lives as he served Randolph Baptist Church, Shady Grove Baptist Church, Plantersville Baptist Church, Summerville Baptist Church, Mt. Carmel No. 1 Baptist Church, and Macedonia Baptist Church. Through his leadership in music, he helped create meaningful moments of worship and fellowship for countless people in the communities he served.

Jim also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide and enjoyed both attending games and watching them whenever he could. He also loved spending time on the golf course, where he found relaxation and fellowship with friends.

Above all else, Jim will be remembered for the deep love and devotion he had for his family. He treasured every moment spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren, and nothing brought him greater joy than being surrounded by those he loved most.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia D. Hayes of Thorsby; his sons, James E. (Faith L.) Hayes of Clanton and Terry L. Hayes of Thorsby; his grandson, James L. Hayes of Clanton; his granddaughters, Sarah L. Hayes of Clanton, Rebecca D. Hayes of Thorsby, and Kristen L. Hayes of Thorsby; and his sisters, Virginia Glenn of Dothan and Linda Hill of Huntsville.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. from the Chapel of Ellison Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. Doug Powell, Rev. Darrell Jones, and Rev. Mark Lovett officiating.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Macedonia Baptist Cemetery in Maplesville, Alabama.

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Colossians 3:16

Final care and arrangements entrusted to Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, Alabama.

www.EllisonMemorialFuneralHome.com