MOUNT VERNON — Thomas Jake Hayes, 99, of Mt. Vernon, passed away at his home on Friday, July 7, 2023.

Jake was born January 29, 1924, in Doniphan, Missouri, the son of Steve and Della (House) Hayes.  On October 6, 1946, he married Ella Maxine Henn, and she preceded him in death on December 7, 1996.

He was a veteran of the United States Army, serving in World War II, as a medic.  He later became a Boilermaker for Local 363.  He was a member of the Mt. Vernon Sportsmen’s Club and enjoyed remodeling antique tractors with his son, Wendell. He loved homemade ice cream with his grandkids and enjoyed listening to country music, watching local bands, and dancing on the weekends.

He is survived by a daughter, Bonita Rae Warner and husband Wilburn of Mt. Vernon; grandchildren, Jason Darnell Hayes, William Joseph Warner, Thomas James Warner, and Jennifer LeRae Fenton; great-grandchildren, Cole Hayes, Bristol Hayes, Samantha Warner, Mikeall Warner, Denny Warner, Whitney Warner, Travis Warner, Ella Warner, Jesse Warner, Dylon Fenton, Sydney Fenton, Addison Fenton, and Joslin Fenton; brother, Marvin Lee Hayes; and sisters, Irene Madelyn, Barbara Graham, and Phyllis Crow.

In addition to his wife, Maxine Hayes, Jake was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Wendell Hayes; brothers, Stevie Hayes, Walter Hayes, Robbie Hayes, and J.C. Hayes; and sisters, Wanda Mitchell, Betty Brumley, and Marie Pierce.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation rites for Mr. Hayes have been accorded, and a graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 14, 2023, at Bethel Cemetery, with Rev. Randy Hayes officiating.  Graveside military rites will be accorded by American Legion Post #141, of Mt. Vernon.  In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the American Legion and will be accepted at the service, or by mail to Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, Illinois 62830.

Online condolences may be made at osbornfuneral.com, or on the Osborn Funeral Home Facebook page.