Lou Dell Hayes passed away on February 15, 2022, at her home in Lorane, Ore. Lou was born Sept. 4, 1942, in Eugene, Oregon to Lewis and Josie Doughty. She had fond memories of growing up on a farm in Lorane and attending her first 6 years of grade school there. The family moved to a ranch in Redmond, Ore., for four years before moving back to Lorane. She graduated from Crow High School in 1960, where she was editor of the school newspaper, active in student clubs & Youth Group. She studied business and was employed both at the University of Oregon and Lane Community College. In 1963, Lou married life-long resident of Lorane Walter Hayes. They celebrated 46 years of marriage before is passing in 2009. They lived in Lorane and Eugene before purchasing property in Lorane where they raised their three children: Kimberly, Laurie and Bradley.
Lou was a dedicated wife and mother who always made sure her family was well taken care of with everything that was needed for a good day! Lou and Walt provided love and support to family and friends their whole lives. They were committed to family traditions and values, spending many weekends helping others, attending church, and visiting grandparents, aunts and uncles for Sunday dinner. They made a great team making all occasions special! They were committed as parents and grandparents, providing for their family and cheering on everyone through school, sports, careers, and life events, always with an encouraging word and a hug.
Lou and Walt were members of the Lorane Christian Church and Lorane Grange. They also enjoyed participating in community organizations including the volunteer fire department, PTA and Booster Club. Lou was also a Campfire and 4-H leader. She had many talents, and was an excellent homemaker, seamstress & creator of craft projects. She was involved with the Christian Women’s Group & Home Extension. Lou and Walt enjoyed camping and travels throughout Oregon and including Alaska, Hawaii and Ireland, as well as annual trips to the Pendelton Round-up. A highlight for Lou was a 16-day Panama Canal Cruise with her sister Sheila.
Lou enjoyed visiting the Oregon Coast, shopping and seafood, reading the newspaper every day, attending many music festivals and Cottage Theatre.
Lou is survived by her children Kim (Chris) Mills, Laurie (Les) Combs and Brad Hayes, sister Sheila (Ted) Hinke, sisters-in-law Margaret Cole and Juanita Bachelder; six grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Walt, parents Lewis and Josie Doughty, sister Rowena & brother-in-law Gene Davis and niece DeLynne (Davis) Zimmerman.
Lou was dearly loved and will be missed greatly by family and friends. A family graveside service will be held at the Lorane IOOF Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
