Mary Helen Hayes

May 16, 1943 - April 1, 2025

Mary Helen Hayes, 81, passed away Tuesday, April 1, 2025, peacefully in her home.

She was born on May 16, 1943, in Damascus, Virginia, to the late Henrietta Rowe and Paul Rowe. Mary remained a life-long resident of Damascus where she served in many roles in her community. She was a member of the Damascus Town Council for numerous terms. One of the many lasting legacies Mary will leave in the town of Damascus is the annual Trail Days Festival, which she was instrumental in establishing. She dedicated her career to Bristol Concrete, where she made a lasting impact over the years.

Mary had an unparalleled talent for card games. Whether it was Rummikub, Scrabble, or Rook, she could always be counted on to bring both her competitive spirit and infectious laughter to the table. She was always up for “a game”, even at the midnight hour! Mary was an avid reader and she looked forward to swapping books with her family and friends who shared in her love of a great story. Reading books and later in life enjoying audio books brought Mary thousands of hours of relaxation and reflection.

Known for her sharp mind, quick wit, and even quicker one-liners, Mary was a woman who truly embraced life. Her sense of humor could light up a room. She could also easily beat you at cards while simultaneously cracking a joke that would leave you in stitches.

In addition to her many talents, Mary was a skilled basket maker, weaving beautiful, handmade baskets that became cherished treasures for her family and friends. She was an active member of the Tidewater, Tennessee, and North Carolina basket guilds. Through these guilds, Mary made many life-long friends.

While all of these traits and hobbies reflected Mary’s life and personality, there was no greater joy in her life than her family. She and Tommy were inseparable and their love and commitment to one another serves as an inspiration to all. Cristi was the light of Mary’s life, right up until her grandsons arrived on the scene! Mary Helen’s most important title was grandmother, and she treasured every second spent with Kelby and Kendell.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by brother Tom Rowe.

She is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Tommy Hayes; Daughter Cristi Hayes Geffers (Keith Geffers); Grandchildren Kelby Geffers, Kendell Geffers; Sister Laura Rowe White (Robert White), Brother-in-law Gerald Hayes (Price Hayes.); Special Cousins; Bobby Rowe Skeens, Betty Rowe Sweet. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who loved her.

We would like to extend a very special thank you to Bentha Cole, Missy Morrison, and Tonya Triplett for all the love they have shown to Mary over the years.

Visitation for Mary will be held on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, from 12:00 P.M. until 1:00 P.M. at Damascus United Methodist Church with a service to follow with Rev. Creighton Smith officiating. There will be a dinner in the fellowship hall following the service.

Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Mary Helen Hayes.