Mrs. Elizabeth Marie Parks Hayes

ROCKY MOUNT – Elizabeth Marie Parks Hayes, age 83, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026.  Born in Northampton County, NC on June 25, 1942, she was the daughter of the late James Loyd Parks and Carrie Ellen Coggins Parks.  She was also preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, Leroy Glenn Hayes, Sr.; her sons, Lawrence Eugene Hayes and Randy Allen Hayes; and 13 siblings.

Elizabeth was a woman of deep faith and quiet strength, a devoted member of Englewood Baptist Church who truly loved the Lord and found joy in serving Him.  She was a people person at heart, always welcoming, always kind, and known for her gentle spirit and steady habit of prayer.  A true homemaker, Elizabeth, took pride in creating a warm and loving home, where her cooking brought comfort and her presence brought peace.  She found great joy in the simple things, tending to her plants, gardening, watching birds and wildlife, and enjoying the beauty of God’s creation.  Above all, she cherished her family, especially her children and grandchildren, who were the light of her life.  In quieter moments, she loved settling in to watch her favorite television shows like Walker Texas Ranger, MacGyver, Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and other classic westerns.  Her life was marked by faith, love, and a gentle devotion to those around her, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, care, and enduring grace.

Elizabeth is survived by her sons, Leroy “Glenn” Hayes, Jr. of Fayetteville, Leroy “Wayne” Hayes of Rocky Mount, and Edmond Wilson of FL; her daughters, Kim Reed of Fayetteville and Nancy Wilson of Rocky Mount; her grandchildren, Melissa Thomas (Aaron), Michael, Daniel Lee Hayes, Amber Marie Hayes, Maria, and Yahir; her five great-grandchildren; her sisters, Virginia Parks Webb and Mebane Griffin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Service to celebrate Elizabeth’s life will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Rocky Mount Memorial Park with Pastor Charles Taylor officiating.  Visitation with the family will follow the service at the graveside.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Elizabeth’s memory to Englewood Baptist Church, 1350 S. Winstead Ave., Rocky Mount, NC  27804.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & 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.