Benjamen Louis Hayes

Sergeant First Class (U.S. Army, Retired) Benjamen Louis “Ben” Hayes, age 42, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, July 5, 2026 with his devoted wife, Tiffany, and his daughter, Savannah by his side. 

Born on May 28, 1984, in Amory, Mississippi, Ben was the beloved son of Susie Hayes and Johnnie Hayes. A proud graduate of Amory High School’s Class of 2002, Ben answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States military in August of 2003. Through 22 years of honorable and faithful service, he exemplified courage, commitment, and selfless sacrifice. During his distinguished military career, he earned numerous medals, ribbons, and commendations in recognition of his dedication and exemplary service.

On November 1, 2025, Ben proudly retired from the military, looking forward to a new chapter of life centered around the people he loved most—especially spending treasured time with his beloved daughter, Savannah. While he wore the uniform with great pride, his greatest honor was being a husband, father, son, brother, and friend.

Ben was an avid outdoorsman who found peace in God’s creation, whether hunting in the woods or casting a line on the water. He never met a stranger and possessed a generous spirit that touched everyone he encountered. Known for his warm smile, kind heart, and willingness to give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, Ben lived a life defined by compassion, humility, and service. His love for his family was unwavering, and his patriotism ran deep. He believed in serving something greater than himself, and his devotion to his country was evident throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Cheryl Tipton.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Tiffany Hayes; his precious daughter, Savannah Ryleigh Hayes; his mother, Susie Hayes; his father, Johnnie Hayes (Kisha); his sister, Katherine Rye (Justin); his father-in-law, Mark Tipton, Sr.; his brothers-in-law, Mark Tipton, Jr. (Elizabeth), along with their daughter, Ava, and Stone Tipton; his uncle, Don Medley; his cousins, Stephen Medley (Meghan) and Landon Medley (Ali); as well as many other extended family members, fellow veterans, and dear friends who were blessed to know and love him.

Ben’s legacy is one of honor, sacrifice, integrity, and unconditional love. He faithfully served his nation, faithfully loved his family, and faithfully cared for others. Though his watch on earth has ended, his example of courage, generosity, and patriotism will continue to inspire all whose lives he touched.

A grateful nation thanks Ben for his faithful service, and his family will forever treasure the love, laughter, and memories he leaves behind. His duty is complete, his mission accomplished, and may he now rest in eternal peace.

Funeral services will held Monday, July 13, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Thomas L. Carter Funeral Home in Flemington. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Pastor Tim Byler will be officiating the service. Interment will be at 3:00 pm at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery with full military honors being rendered. 

Thomas L. Carter Funeral Home & Crematory is handling the arrangements. 
 

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