Carol Hayes

Carol Ann Hayes, a lifelong resident of Indiana, born in Noblesville on April 4, 1960, was a beacon of love, resilience, and courage, illuminating the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Her light ceased to shine on Earth on February 27, 2025, but her memory will forever glow in the hearts of those who knew her. Carol's life was characterized by her unwavering reliability, an attribute that touched all facets of her life, from her work in the healthcare industry to her profound devotion to her family, friends, and faith.

In her professional life, Carol was a stalwart figure, a Nurses Aid who devoted countless hours to the wellbeing of those in her care. Her resilience and courage were hallmarks of her character, traits that underpinned her dedication to her work and the people she served. Away from the wards, Carol found solace in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid watcher of crime shows, a blackjack enthusiast, a music lover, and a culinary aficionada. The joy she derived from these pastimes was only surpassed by the love she held for her granddaughter, her pets Pretzel and "Cat", and the memory of her son Derek.

Carol's faith was an integral part of who she was. She was a dedicated member of the Arcadia Lutheran Church, even when her health no longer permitted her to attend services, she continued to support the church through monetary donations. Her favorite bible verse, John 3:16, mirrored her belief in eternal life, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." The cardinal, a symbol of an angel from heaven, held a particular place in Carol's heart, reminding her of the divine promise of eternal life.

Carol leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience. She is survived by her loving granddaughter, Erica Hayes, her beloved siblings Mary Rose, Linda, Dennis (Theresa) Hayes, Bobby Hayes, and Barry (Karla) Hayes, and her cherished in-laws Theresa and Karla. Carol is now reunited with her dear parents, Robert and Mary Hayes, her brother Michael Hayes, and most importantly, her son Derek Hayes, in the eternal kingdom of the Lord.

Carol's wishes were to be cremated. Visitation will be held at Hartley Funeral Home, 209 W. Jackson, Cicero on Monday, March 24 from 6PM -8PM.

As we mourn the loss of our beloved Carol, we also celebrate her life and the memories she has left us. We remember her not only as a reliable sister, a loving family member, a resilient caregiver, and a courageous woman, but also as an individual whose spirit was as vibrant as the cardinals she so loved. We invite everyone whose life was touched by Carol to share their memories and upload photos on her memorial page. May her life continue to inspire us and her memory be for a blessing.