Obituary of Mary Clara Hayes

Bedford Mary Clara Hayes, 99, of Bedford, died peacefully in her sleep after an extensive life that allowed her to see life evolve. She began her life sleeping on feather beds, to the release of Coca-Cola, man walking on the moon and so many more. She also experienced many firsts, such as the first radio, car and airplane. She lived a life filled with many new experiences, but most importantly she lived a life serving the Lord. Mary was the daughter of Will R. and Flora Blanche (Ramsey) Wood. She attended Erie School for her grade school up through the 6th grade. She was in the second graduating class of Shawswick High School in 1928. She went on to Bedford Business College, living with a family on 14th Street so she wouldnt have to commute by horse and buggy during the week. She was the first woman deputy in Lawrence County where she worked for Sheriff Lester Hayes, who would later become her father-in-law. She then worked for Charlie Allen at the abstract office in the Masonic Temple. She was laid off during the Depression, but later hired back making $10.00 a week. She gave the $10.00 to her Dad which supported the family of five along with what they raised on the farm. Later she was hired by Dave McNabb who was the President of Bedford National Bank. Mary worked her way to the head of the bookkeeping department where she managed many people in the over 25 years of employment. She later gave up her position to stay home and care for her aging parents. Mary always had a witty saying that could bring a smile to anyone. In her last years she would often say, There is no shame in getting old, but it sure is unhandy. Mary was a member of the Erie United Methodist Church for 80 years. Mary married Sylvester Merle Hayes in 1945 in Oakland, CA after brief courtship of 4 months. They were married 51 years until his death. They were an inspirational couple, always holding hands and nothing but kind words for one another. Preceding her in death are her parents, Will R. and F. Blanche Wood. Her husband, S. Merle Hayes in 1997 and her sister, Wilma N. Wood in 2004. Surviving are her daughter, Janet (Hayes) Crane and husband, Merle of Bedford; one brother, Oren Monk Wood and wife, Mary of Buddah; three granddaughters, Jennifer Crane of Indianapolis, Julie Crane of Bedford and Jill (Crane) Willbanks and husband, Frankie of Bedford. We have been blessed to have her in our lived and she will live on in our hearts. She gave us words to live by, I was blessed with good health and I have worked hard, those are the reasons I have reached this age. The Good Lord has been at my side constantly. Funeral Information Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 am on Friday, May 29th from the Elmwood Chapel of the Day & Carter Mortuary with Rev. Lindy Hopkins and Rev. Dr. Ted Murphy officiating. Burial will follow in the Erie Church Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, May 28th at the Day & Carter Mortuary.