Richard Eugene Hayes, age 79, of Dalton, Georgia passed away on Tuesday, October 5, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Oscar Hayes and Mattie Elizabeth Hayes; brothers, Jess Runyan, Floyd Runyan, John Earl Runyan, Charles Hayes, William O. Hayes, Jr.; sisters, Frances Bray, Helen Faw, Katherine Armstrong, Pearlie Hayes; and a special sister-in-law, Ruby Hayes. He is survived by his daughter, Lisa Smith of Dalton; brother, Jerry Hayes of Dawnville; sister, Barbara Bray of Fairmount; grandchildren, Douglas Chambers, Bobby Chambers; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and good friend, Margaret Kolluck of Dalton. He was born on September 12, 1942 in Whitfield County. He was a sergeant in the United States Army and was a Vietnam Veteran. He was a master plumber and electrician in Dalton and surrounding counties for more than 40 years. He loved spending time with his daughter and grandsons. His grandsons were his world. He loved to fish and sit outdoors. He fought hard battling cancer and never gave up. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 PM Sunday, October 10, 2021 at West Hill Cemetery with Pastor Josh Parker officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to independently owned and operated Dalton Funeral Home, 620 S. Glenwood Ave. Dalton, GA 30721; 706-529-5371.