Sunday, May 26, 1935 – Monday, Nov. 11, 2024
Shrewsbury – Henry J. “Harry” Hayes, Jr., 89, longtime Shrewsbury resident passed on Monday, November 11, 2024 after a brief illness.
He leaves his beloved wife of 70 years, Pauline G. (Moloney) Hayes; his five children, Henry J. “Jim” Hayes and his wife Laurie, of Worcester, Thomas G. “Tom” Hayes and his wife Susan, of Wrentham, Michael E. “Mike” Hayes and his wife Ann Marie, of New Jersey, Susan P. Gustafson, of Worcester, and Ronald J. “Ron” Hayes and his wife Sharon, of Charlton; 22 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter; his siblings, David Hayes, of New Hampshire, and Arlene Connolly, of Waltham; along with many nieces and nephews. Harry was predeceased by his siblings, June Cannistraro and Raymond Hayes.
Harry was born in Waltham, son of the late Henry James Hayes and Rose (Vienneau) Hayes, where he was also raised and educated. He attended St. Mary’s High School in Waltham.
Harry was primarily a self-made, self-employed businessman over his 70+ year work life. His endeavors included professional wallpaper hanger and painting contractor, brief stints as an insurance salesman and purchaser for a well-known electronics firm, and ultimately a small business owner and investor in income property.
Harry was always happiest working for himself. He continued to run a business and maintain income property until his passing. “Retirement” was never a consideration.
Harry was also an accomplished piano player and played at various times in his life at several local establishments. He was an avid Boston sports fan and loved to cheer for Boston teams, especially the Celtics.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the Hayes Family on Friday, November 22, 2024 from 10:00-11:30 AM at Saint Mary’s Church, 640 Main Street, Shrewsbury followed by a funeral Mass at 11:30 AM and burial in the family lot at Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
