Mother Eleanor Hayes' Obituary
Our beloved Eleanor Hayes, affectionately known as Nannie to her family, was a beacon of love, faith, and service, with a touch of style, elegance, and grace. Born on March 4, 1937, in Pensacola, Florida, to Charlie and Genevieve Bradford, Eleanor was the youngest of two daughters. She shared a special bond with her older sister, Barbara Jean Bradford, and worked diligently to graduate alongside her from Washington High School. Her love for learning led her to Florida A&M University before life’s journey took her in exciting new directions.
In 1955, Eleanor moved with her mother to Los Angeles, California, where she embraced motherhood and the joys of family life. In 1956, she was blessed with her first child, a precious baby boy named Kenneth. Though his time on Earth was brief, lasting only 2 months and 21 days, Kenneth’s presence brought immense love and joy to Eleanor’s heart. His memory remained a treasured and cherished part of her life, a reminder of the enduring power of love. In 1957, she welcomed her daughter, Renee, and devoted herself to raising her with boundless love and care. Seeking new opportunities, Eleanor moved to San Diego in 1964 with her mother and daughter, laying the foundation for a bright future.
In 1971, Eleanor met Charlie D. Hayes, and their love story quickly unfolded. They married on July 29, 1972, and shared 38 wonderful years together. Their joy was complete in 1983 when they welcomed their daughter, Gennifer, whom Eleanor lovingly called her “retirement present from the Lord.” Eleanor and Gennifer shared an unbreakable bond, navigating life together as best friends and mother and daughter.
Eleanor endured profound loss throughout her life, including the unexpected passing of her beloved daughter Renee in 1994. Yet, she faced each challenge with grace and unwavering faith in God, serving as an example of strength and resilience. Her deep trust in the Lord sustained her and inspired those around her.
Eleanor dedicated her life to faith and service, becoming a cornerstone of St. Stephen’s Cathedral Church of God in Christ, where she worshipped for over 50 years. She served in numerous roles, including church secretary for 17 years, and was active on the Mother’s Board, Deaconess Board, Choir, Hospitality Committee, and many other ministries. Her kindness and dedication extended beyond the church, feeding the homeless, teaching Vacation Bible School, and offering support wherever needed.
Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Genevieve Bradford; her sister, Barbara Jean Bradford; her son, Kenneth; her daughter, Renee; and her devoted husband, Charlie D. Hayes.
She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughter Gennifer Hayes-Brown (Brandon Brown, Sr.); her four grandson’s Marvin Ellis (Mary Ellis), Brandon Brown, Jr., Baylor Brown, and Braxton Brown; great-grandchildren Jordan Ellis, Autumn Ellis, and Brandon Ellis; special nieces Sharlene Perkins and Janet Benjamin; special nephews Clarence Benjamin and Gerald Benjamin; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Eleanor, our Nannie, was the matriarch of our family and the heart of our home. Her warmth, laughter, and unwavering faith touched every life she encountered. While her absence leaves an immeasurable void, we find comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on in our hearts. We eagerly await the day when we will be reunited with her in eternity, holding fast to the love and memories she left behind.
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