David Ray Hayes, age 68 of Roanoke, VA, departed this life on March 18, 2026. He was born on November 20, 1957, to the late Casper "Musty" Hayes and Rachel Stanley Hayes. He was preceded in death by two siblings: Rodney Wayne Hayes and Brenda Lee Smith. He was one of four children and Gerald "Jerry" Hayes is the surviving sibling.

David had many aunts and uncles; his favorite cousin was Donnie Blankenship; favorite nephew was Randy Smith: best friend was Timmy Seacrest. It is lovingly noted these three individuals stood by him until the end. They shared strong-bonding interests including NASCAR, Franklin County Speedway, baseball, and many other sports.

David graduated from William Fleming High School and was a well-known National roller-skating speed skater. He also was a gifted hardball player and won many championships: he loved the Cincinnati Reds. David followed in the footsteps of his father (who owned Hayes Radio and TV fastpick softball teams and was the Virginia commissioner of softball). At an early age, David was nicknamed "Babe Ray," after the legendary baseball Hall of Famer, "Babe" Ruth. David always admired his father and even batted at a young age on his father's teams.

David also followed his father's footsteps by working on the railroad until he became physically disabled. David had an unmatchable work ethic, was competitive, and everyone knew where he or she "stood" with him because of his strong personality. He was unapologetic about his personality and loved life to the fullest!

A memorial service was held at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens in Roanoke, VA, on April 6, 2026. He's laid to rest next to his brother, Rodney, and nearby his beloved parents.