With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Judy Ann Hayes, born April 11, 1952, who peacefully entered eternal rest on July 24, 2026, at the age of 74.


A devoted Catholic, Judy lived a life rooted in faith. Her unfailing trust in God guided her through life's joys and hardships. She was a shining example of kindness, compassion and selfless love.

She shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Lamar Hayes. Together they built a home filled with love, faith, laughter and cherished memories. She was a devoted wife whose love and commitment to her husband never wavered. Lamar took Judy out to eat every day. She loved it. Judy knew everyone when she walked in and everyone knew her. She never met a stranger. Couldn't drive past a Sonic without getting her a Diet Coke with cherries and cherry juice. She loved music and would get tickled pink when Michael Jackson played on the radio. One of her favorite things to do was go play Mexican Dominoes with her favorite neighbors and closest friends, Jesse and Kristen.


Above all else, she treasured her family. She was the proud mother of 7 children, Kristy (Sean) Wood, Tiffany (Shawn) Schexnaildre, Mandy Hayes, Jaime (Tiffany) Hayes, Ashley (Nathan) Keith, Rusty Hayes and Haley (Lance) Guidry, and lovingly raised them with strength, patience and boundless devotion. Though she experienced the heartbreaking loss of a beloved son, she carried his memory in her heart every day. She was also blessed with 26 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, each of whom brought her endless joy and pride. Family was everything to her. She loved going to watch her grandchildren and great grandchildren perform at their sporting events and musical performances. If she was invited, she went.


She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Valmont "Skip" and Katherine Benoit Jr., her cherished son, Rusty, and her dear nephew, Garrett. While their loss was deeply felt, her faith gave her comfort and hope throughout her life.


She also found great comfort and companionship in her precious dog, Tiny, whose loyal presence brought her happiness and countless smiles.


She leaves behind her dedicated husband, her six surviving children, her grand and great grandchildren, 2 sisters, 2 brothers, extended family, and many friends who will forever remember her gentle spirit, generous heart and loving nature.


Her legacy is one of faith, family and unconditional love. She taught those around her the importance of compassion, perseverance and putting family first. Although she will be deeply missed, her love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.


The family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord, reunited with those who have gone before her, and embraced by God's eternal love.


Family will receive friends Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at the Reeves Chapel - Riley Smith and Sons, 219 Ford Street, Reeves, Louisiana. Visitation will resume Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Reeves Chapel - Riley Smith and Sons Reeves, Louisiana. A Mass of Christian burial at 12:00 p.m. at St. Theodore Catholic Church, 785 Sam Houston Jones Parkway, Moss Bluff, Louisiana. Father Jeffrey Starkovich will be officiating. Interment will follow at Westlake Memorial Cemetery, 383 Fletcher Road, Westlake, Louisiana.