Barbara Jean Tucker Hayes, 91, of Statesville, N.C., passed away peacefully at the S. Mitchell Mack Hospice House on Friday, May 30, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Barbara was born on July 28, 1933, in Iredell County to the late Dollie and Ethel Bullin Tucker. She was a lifelong member of Diamond Hill Baptist Church and was the last living charter member. She enjoyed spending time with her family, cooking, and playing cards. Barbara also played solitaire and puzzles daily on her laptop. Her entire life she played the piano and was part of several gospel groups. The Atlanta Braves baseball games brought a tremendous amount of joy and excitement to her. Barbara’s ability to make beautiful outfits made her one of the best seamstresses. She never met a stranger and could tell the best stories. The love, laughter, and memories made with her family and friends will be cherished forever.

In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, William Horace Hayes; and three sisters, Mary Lou Bell, Jettie Safriet, and Doris Deaton. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Barbara Hayes is survived by her loving daughter, Lavonda Nicholson (Allen Nicholson); her grandchildren, Jeniene Nicholson and Adrianne Nicholson; and her great grandchildren, Alaina Smith (Tristan Hopkins), Adalynn Nicholson and Kedan Nicholson.

Funeral service will be held on June 5, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Diamond Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Holleman officiating. The family will visit with friends prior to the service from 2 to 3 p.m., and any time after.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Diamond Hill Baptist Church, 2320 East Broad Street, Statesville, NC 28625

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the Hayes family.