Mr. Robert Durant Hayes Jr., was born January 28th, 1960, transitioned on August 20th, 2024 while surrounded by loved ones. He was born to Robert D. Hayes, Sr. and his mother Clarine Dorothy “Dot” Hayes (who preceded him in death).

In his adolescence, Robert Durant Hayes Jr. was known by his family as “Dooney”. This name was given to him by his older sister, Teresa, who at the time couldn’t pronounce his name. He grew up with a deep faith in God, which guided and sustained him throughout his life. Robert attended Kirkman Park Elementary, Jamestown Middle, and T. Wingate Andrews High School where he developed his love/passion for football. His dominance on the field earned him the name “Crush” because he “crushed everything in sight as a defense lineman. After high school, Robert went on to play football in college at Mt. San Jacinto and Johnson C. Smith. He loved to tell the story to his children and grandkids about how dominant of a football player he was and often bragged about his 3 NFL workouts; however, the family could never get him to prove/confirm the validity of that story.

At the tender age of 22, Robert met the love of his life and best friend Vivian Hayes, his wife of 41 years. Together they had three children Robert “CJ” Durant Hayes III, William Quintin Hayes (Candace), and Ebony Gail Hayes all residing in High Point, N.C.

Robert worked for several years at Valspar as a chemical mixer, demonstrating his versatility and dedication in various fields. In the late 80s, he started Hayes Construction and became a General Contractor, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic. His dedication to community service was evident in his roles as co-owner of Right Track; a program helping juvenile offenders, a member of ASK( acquiring scholarships for kids), which was an organization supporting inner-city athletes, and Peace Makers; a local faith-based group, working tirelessly to advance his community and increase African American representation in local government.

Robert was a devoted husband and a proud family man who found immense joy in coaching his two sons on the football field. Alongside his wife, who coached their daughter in cheerleading for the Cedrow Redskins in little league, he cherished every moment spent with his family. He embraced his role as a granddaddy with great seriousness and love, whether it was taking his grandsons to watch trains for hours, letting his granddaughters practice braiding his hair, or spending countless hours in the backyard building swing sets and play structures for them to enjoy. His dedication and love for his family were evident in every action, making him a cherished and unforgettable figure in their lives.

Robert leaves behind to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Vivian Hayes; his three children: Robert D. Hayes III., William Q. Hayes (married to Candace), and Ebony G. Hayes; and seven grandchildren: Camille Hayes, Quintin Hayes, Chloe Hayes, K'Dynce Hayes, Camryn Hayes, Kailan Hayes, and William Hayes, all of High Point, NC. He is also survived by his father, Mr. Robert D. Hayes, Sr.; his brothers, Anthony W. Hayes, Sr. (married to Mary), Van Q. Hayes, Sr. (married to Donna), and Travis Henderson (married to Irene); and his sisters, Carol Ann Hayes-Phillips, and Hope T. Hayes (married to Antwan Curse); and five aunts: Helen Hayes, Joann Quick, Barbara Hayes, Virginia Hayes-Sanchez (married to Joseph), and Betty Derry. Additionally, he leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Clairine Dorothy "Dot" Hayes, and his two sisters, Teresa Amusan and and Ruth Ellen Hayes.

Robert leaves a legacy of love, strength, and resilience that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, August 31, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. at St. Stephen Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church. Interment will follow at Guil-Rand Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church from 11:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.