Stephen Richard Hayes

Stephen Richard Hayes, a father, a brother, a son and grandpa passed away peacefully surrounded by the ones he loved on April 29, 2021. 

Steve was born on February 8, 1952 to Richard and Esther Hayes in Springfield, Missouri.  As he always said “long story short”, his family moved to Salt Lake City when he was a newborn baby.  When he was a young boy, he briefly lived with his Grandma Hathaway in San Francisco and often reminisced that was one of the best times of his childhood.  His parents encouraged him to move back to Salt Lake City where he graduated from South High and lived for the rest of his life.    

After high school, Steve worked a multitude of jobs finishing out his career at the Museum of Fine Arts with the University of Utah, a job that he took great pride in and loved.  “Long story short”  his tenure there brought him much passion and appreciation for the arts which was reflected in every aspect of his being, from decor to food to fashion.  Never did you see Steve without being dressed to the nines.  Even when on a quick run to the grocery store, he was always dressed to impress and had a motto of 'wherever you are, whatever you're doing, BE COOL"!  He lived up to that until the day he left this beautiful earth.  

After retiring, Steve spent his time surrounded by family and friends.   He had a great passion for the arts (theatre, opera, musicals, art shows). He loved his cars and motorcycle, embraced a good cowboy movie, and ok, I know you are all waiting for it...ELVIS!!  Steve had a special relationship with Elvis, one that touched the soul (and ear) of everyone he was ever around.  He loved to blare music morning, noon, and night and couldn’t resist shaking those hips to the beat.  “Long story short”, Steve always knew how to have a good time, and it was contagious to anyone around him.   He was the ultimate conversationalist and storyteller.  He had a magnetic personality, and people were drawn to him for laughter, for friendship, for love.  We will miss that smile, and oh, how we all will miss his laugh.  

Steve leaves behind his three daughters:  Tressa Pack (Mike), Joy Hayes, and Chantel Hayes.  He was the original #girldad.    He is also survived by three siblings:  Judy McMillan (Art), James Hayes (Annette), and Jeannine Johnson; his grandchildren:  Andre, Sahraya, Santino, Alex, Brennan and Dean; his best friend, confidante and cousin, Larry Onitveros (Carmen); his godson, Henry Johnson; his special friend, Lily Long; and countless nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.  

There are no words to express how much he will be missed, but to give solace and laughter in a time of sorrow, these words deem appropriate:

 Well Folks... ELVIS HAS LEFT THE BUILDING.

Our family would like to give special thanks and appreciation to Alice and Joe from Hospice who made this difficult process a little less difficult with all their kindness and care.  

Please join us for a celebration of life honoring Steve on Friday, May 7th 2021 from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Millcreek, Utah.  Refreshments and drinks will be served.  Please use the complimentary parking located on the north side of the building.