Frankie Gene

Hayes

Hayes – Frankie Gene Hayes, age 70, of Yulee, Florida passed away on November 8, 2026. He was born on April 19, 1956, in Lumberton, North Carolina to the late Taft Hayes and Gertrude Parker Hayes. Some people are easy to describe, and then there was Gene, better known to everyone as “Papa.” He was wild, crazy, stubborn, hard-headed, mischievous, and one heck of a jokester. Gene had a true free spirit, lived life his own way and never cared what anyone thought. He left behind memories that will have us laughing, shaking our heads, and smiling for years to come. Gene had a personality unlike any other and a heart bigger than most realized. He could make you mad one minute and have you laughing the next. Gene loved stirring up trouble, especially with his daughter. He would call her “Rydale” just to get under her skin, ask if she was mad, and then quickly remind her, “But I love you.” That was Papa’s special way of showing love. Gene had one daughter who will forever be his little girl and six grandchildren who became his pride and joy. His love for his family, especially his grandbabies, was something truly special. Gene wasn’t a perfect man, and he never pretended to be. He was stubborn, impossible at times, full of life, and completely unforgettable. But most importantly, he was our Papa who we loved dearly. Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing his stories, jokes, laughter, and his love will live on through all of us. There will always be a memory that makes us smile or a moment when we can almost hear one of his smart remarks. Papa who was a remarkable, one-of-a-kind man may be gone but will never be forgotten. He was preceded in death by his parents; and beloved wife, Nancy Hayes.

Gene leaves behind his daughter, Melissa Hayes; grandchildren, Jeremy (Tiffany) Hayes, Chase (Brooke) Hayes, Noah (Haylee) Whitehurst, Skyler Whitehurst, Zoie Whitehurst, and Kemberley Brannan; great-grandchildren, Greysen, Braelynn, Dallas, Jetsyn, Whitley, and Kolton; siblings, Wade (Betty) Hayes, Carolyn (Wayne) Benton, Gilda (Tommy) Edwards; and brother-in-law, Chapman Brannan.

The tribute above was prepared by Gene’s loving family.

A Celebration of Gene’s Life will be held on Monday, November 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Nassau Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011, 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family’s guest book.