Joann Chewning Hayes

Rocky Mount – JoAnn Chewning Hayes, age 73, went to be with her heavenly Father on Wednesday, March 16, 2016. Born in Nash County, NC on July 11, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Charlie William Chewning and Hattie Ramsey Chewning. She was the eighth of nine children and was preceded in death by her step-son, Brent Hayes; her three brothers, Tom, June, and Bennett; and four of her sisters, Lois, Doris, Broadus, and Rachel.

JoAnn, and her husband Robert are longtime owners of Benvenue Grill along with their son Randy Hayes. Her career passion was housecleaning and helping others. Her joys in life were her family. She loved unconditionally her Lord, her family, and her church. A woman of great faith, she was a longtime member of Arlington Baptist Church. Her beautiful smile and generosity to others was appareled.

JoAnn leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband of 43 years, Robert Hayes; son, Randy Hayes; grandson, Jaxson Hayes, and her sister, Carolyn C. Atkinson and husband, John; along with many beloved nieces and nephews and their families.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 19, 2016 at 11:00 AM at Arlington Baptist Church, 1500 Bethlehem Road, Rocky Mount with Rev. Phillip Coats and Rev. Bill Grisham officiating. Burial will follow at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. The family will receive friends and relatives on Friday, March 18, 2016 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to Arlington Baptist Church, 1500 Bethlehem Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27803 or the charity of one’s choice in memory of JoAnn’s giving spirit.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.