Ms. Arleen K. Hayes

Life Reflections

Arleen Kaye Hayes was born on September 17, 1957, in Flint, Michigan to Johnie Will Smith and Warlean Carr.

Arleen accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was baptized at Memorial Baptist Church in St. Louis, MO. She later joined Friendly Temple Church under the leadership of Bishop Michael Jones where she served on the Usher Board. While caring for her grandmother, Arleen also attended Word of Faith Church under the leadership of Bishop Bobby Nesbit in Dyersburg, Tennessee.

Arleen was educated in the Normandy School District and was a proud Normandy High School Viking graduate of the class of 1976. She also received her associate degree at Forest Park Community College.

Arleen worked several jobs during her lifetime. She worked at McDonnell Douglas Corporation for 15 years and went on to work heavy equipment for Operating Engineers Local 513. She also worked as a certified nurse’s assistant until her retirement.

Arleen cared about her community by serving as the block captain and secretary for the Federation of Block Units 831B which was formed in 1969 and is one of the oldest block units in existence. She also served on the planning and zoning commission for the City of Jennings.

Arleen was the life of the party. She loved gathering with family and friends and was known to celebrate her birthday for the entire month of September. Her favorite things were gardening and being around people. Her grinning and laughter will always be remembered. Arleen also loved to eat! She knew where all the great eating spots were and was one to eat everything and not gain weight!

Arleen was preceded in death by her parents, her bonus father Edgar Hayes, brother Micheal Hayes and nephew Cedric DeShay. She leaves to cherish her memory; sisters Michele (Dennis), Monica (Jerome), and Vanecia; brother John Hope Bryant (Chaitra); best friends Sha Sha and Mary; special friend Sterling; Goddaughter Adlanda; and a host of nieces, nephews, friends and her Friendly Temple Church Family.

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