With profound love and gratitude, our family announces the passing of Richard N. Hayes on November 19, 2025. Born in West Hartford, CT on December 9, 1932, he was the son of the late William Hayes and Helena Hayes (née Cooney). Married for 55 years to the late Janet Kardos Hayes, the “girl next door” became his beloved lifelong partner in every sense. He was the cherished father of R. Neil Hayes, Jr of Essex, Linda Hayes-Lutian and Michael Lutian of Milford, Lori Hayes-O’Brien and James O’Brien of Trumbull, and Brian Hayes and Kelley Hayes of Milford, and the proud, incomparable "Grampy" to Claire Hayes, R. Neil Hayes, III, David Lutian and Katie Lutian, Jeffrey Lutian, Elizabeth Lutian, Jonathan O’Brien, Katelyn O’Brien, Olivia Hayes, and Brian Hayes, Jr., who treasured him deeply.

His formative years were shaped by the water. He grew up sailing out of the Housatonic Boat Club on Long Island Sound, where he was a devoted member for over 80 years. He competitively raced one-design Lightnings throughout the Northeast, his four children rotating through crew positions learning firsthand what he valued most: teamwork, perseverance, and joy in the journey. As life evolved, he moved from racing to cruising, exploring Long Island Sound, and the coasts of Massachusetts, and Rhode Island aboard his Ericson 29 and later his Ericson 35, always with his wife Janet by his side, his favorite shipmate. He cherished and nurtured the friends he made through a mutual love of the sea.

His professional journey began as a tool and die maker, a role that sparked a lifelong passion for precision and craftsmanship. He went on to earn his degree in manufacturing engineering and was a member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. Over his 30-plus year career at Sikorsky Aircraft and Dow-UT, he served as a respected leader and colleague.

Above all else, he was a man who adored his family. His legacy lives on in the strength of the family he built, the memories shared across generations, and the countless lives he touched with humor, intelligence, and a warm, unforgettable presence. Dad lived a life defined by devotion, generosity, curiosity, and integrity with an unwavering commitment to those he cared for. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Richard is survived by his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, in-laws and many cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday November 26, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in St. James Church Main St Stratford. Interment will be in Union Cemetery Stratford. Friends may call on Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. in the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford. In lieu of flowers those desiring may make donations to the American Cancer Society or the American Humane Society. 

Stay safe and be well.