Joe Louis Hayles, Sr., son of the late Ence Hayles and May Lizzie Brown Hayles, was born in Davisboro, Georgia on February 5, 1938.  He was the youngest of four siblings.

He received his formal education in the Washington County Public School System.  Throughout school, Joe was a very zealous, considerate, and inquisitive student who gained much from his educational experiences and school activities.

Joe was united in marriage to his friend and life-long mate, Georgia Mae Reeves.  His love for his wife was unmatched—she was the sparkle in his eyes, the beat in his heart, and the air that he breathed.  For more than 30 years, they shared an extraordinary life and abiding love that overflowed with joy, laughter, and true devotion to each other.   Joe was an incredible husband and bonus father who was full of wisdom, compassion, strength, love, and humor.  Family was paramount in his life and he took great care in providing for them through his employment as a distributor with Georgia Crown.  Joe was a loyal, dedicated employee who was proud of the service that he provided and worked untiringly over the years to ensure that no task was ever left undone.  He retired after rendering years of unparalleled service.

Blessed beyond measure, Joe lived a rich and rewarding life; reached the hallowed age of 87; and left an enduring legacy of kindness, laughter, generosity, and dedication that he shared with family and friends.  His life was filled with many interesting pastimes and experiences.  Oftentimes, he could be found sitting in the backyard with family and friends reminiscing about his childhood and humble beginnings.  Anyone who knew him would agree that even in his seasoned years, he was strong and steady with an exceptionally sharp memory.  Joe also enjoyed fishing and watching television—especially sports.

On April 23, 2025, Joe transitioned from this earthly life to eternal rest and peace.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepchildren, Linda D. Gipson-Hudson, Booker T. Sims, and Willie J. Gipson; and three siblings, Charlie Brown, Elnora Hayles Archer, and Lula Mae Hayles-Mitchell.

Precious memories will forever be cherished by his loving wife, Georgia Mae Hayles; stepchildren, Retired Sgt. Sfc. Jerome N. Reeves, Robert L. Gipson, Janice R. Gipson, and Lawrence Gipson, Jr.; numerous step-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.