Hubert Hayes was born on January 22, 1940, in Ft Benning, GA to Paul and Irene Hayes. He lived in Columbus for most of his life until he came to live with his daughter in Phenix City in 2024.

Hubert attended Baker High School, where he graduated in 1959. There, he was active in baseball, Science Club and ROTC. He was known as a humorous kid who kept everyone laughing, which he continued throughout his life.

Hubert attended Columbus College (now CSU), where he was the very first baseball pitcher.

In 1967, he became employed by Southern Railway (later renamed Norfolk Southern) where he remained for 36 years. He worked in the Atlanta, Columbus and Macon yards. He always had stories to tell about his friends and exploits from the railroad! He was an expert storyteller, always infusing the story with his great wit and intelligence.

Among Hubert’s passions in life were his family, fishing, space, animals and music.

He mentored countless fishermen in the Columbus area and knew most every lake or pond around. Flat Rock and Cooper Creek were favorites.

Hubert had a lifelong love for learning about space, even building his own telescope as a child!  He would teach anyone who would listen about constellations, black holes, planets and stars.

Hubert was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Kenneth and Brenda. He was also preceded by his wives, Abbie Talley Hayes Price and Sarah Helen Adams Hayes and a whole host of influential aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. Also, great buddies, fishing and otherwise, whose friendships he treasured. He loved to tell stories about his most colorful family members and friends!

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Alan, Melanie, Jennifer, Robbie and Tracy, 15 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. He loved each one with all of his heart.

Also left to cherish his memory are numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Hubert never met a stranger and would give the shirt off his back for anyone in need.

Hubert died on June 2, 2026, after a valiant battle with cancer.  He will never be forgotten.

Georgia Cremation-Columbus is assisting the family with the arrangements.