Roland Hayes

Roland Michael Hayes was born in Shreveport, Louisiana on August 13, 1963, to Rosie (Wells) Hayes and Arthur Hayes. He was the first of five children born to Rosie and Arthur. Roland was preceded in death by his mother, Rosie Hayes, and his two brothers, John Patrick Hayes and Charles McArthur Hayes (Chucky).

Roland grew up in Maplewood, Missouri. He graduated from Maplewood Richmond Heights High School In 1980. After graduation he attended Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, Missouri. While at Central Missouri State University, he became a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity.

Roland began attending church at a very young age. He and his family attended First Community Baptist of Pagedale, formerly known as First Baptist Church of Maplewood. Later, he became a member of Trinity Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Florissant. He also sang with the Men’s Choir on Men’s Day.

Roland was family-oriented and he came from a very closely connected family. Roland was special to his family. He loved them and they loved him. Holidays were a special time for them to get together. Roland and his Aunt Erma (Erma Hayes-Blair) had a special bond. She was the first and last person he wanted to see or talk to. He loved and trusted her immensely. He knew that he could always depend on her for advice, comfort, support, empathy and unconditional love.

Roland enjoyed fishing with his long-term childhood friend, Robert Sanders. He also enjoyed reading; sports; watching old movies; and cooking. He often called his Aunt Erma to ask her how to cook a particular food.

Roland died peacefully on May 7, 2026, with his family by his side. He will be sorely missed. Roland’s friendliness, caring, laughter, down-to-earth demeanor, and endearing smile made him special to his family and everyone he met.

Roland is survived by his son, Roland Michael Hayes, Jr; his father, Arthur Hayes; his sisters, Tammy Hayes and Toni Hayes (Ravi ); his aunt Erma Hayes Blair; his uncle Robert Blair; his uncle Charles Hayes; his niece Josephine Moten; his nephew MacArthur Moten, Jr; surrogate Uncle and Aunt Mickey and Sue Talton; and numerous cousins and a host of friends.