Walter Eugene Hayes

Walter Eugene Hayes, affectionately known as Walt, was born on February 14, 1959, to Wanda Lee Hayes and Walter Lee Watson. On Monday, November 3, 2025, at the age of 66, Walter peacefully transitioned from this life, surrounded by his loved ones. Walter brought warmth, strength, and unconditional love to all who were blessed to know him. Walter was a lifelong resident of Bartlesville, Oklahoma and a graduate of College High Wildcat, Class of 1977. Athletics played a central role in Walter’s life. He excelled in basketball, football, track, and wrestling from childhood through his semi-professional football years. In his youth, he was an proud member of the 1968 Boys Club Flag Football Champions, the "Cowboys,' also know as the "Mini Time Capsules." His dedication, spirit, and unmatched drive made him a standout in every sport he pursued. Through competition, he found joy, discipline, and lifelong friendships that shaped the person he became. Beyond sports, Walter had a deep love for traveling, horseback riding, and music. Whether exploring new places, enjoying time outdoors, or listening to the melodies that moved his soul, he embraced life with curiosity, passion, and an adventurous spirit. In his later years, Walter devoted himself to meaningful service as an Office Clerk supporting Veterans in rural communities through the Veterans Connection Organization. He took great pride in assisting those who bravely served our country, offering compassion, patience, and respect in every interaction. For Walter, this wasn’t just a job — it was a way to give back, to honor others, and to live out his lifelong values of kindness, humility, and service. Walter’s greatest act of love was serving as a caregiver to his beloved mother, caring for her with honor, tenderness, and unwavering dedication — a true reflection of the love and selflessness that defined his life. Walter was preceded in death by his father, Walter Watson, his stepmother, Georgia Watson, his stepfather, Kermit Reese and his brother, Marcel Watson. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Wanda Hayes of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; his devoted sons, Walter Watson of Gilbert, Arizona, and Erick Gentry of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; and his cherished siblings: Denise Melton (Gloria) of Hampton, Virginia; Art Shinault (Gwen) of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Sharon Reese McGlory (Charles) of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; Arlene Sutton (Beachey) of Midlothian, Texas; Vonnetta Wiggins (Arthur) of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; Valisa “Cinnamon” Watson of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Emeka Watson (Darlene) of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Sparkle Watson of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends, all of whom will continue to honor his memory and carry his love forward. Among them, his nephew Antonio Reese Ogans held a special place in his heart, playing a vital role in Walter’s life and offering steadfast love and support throughout his final days. Walter's best friend Lee Towers and a special friend, Renee Cleaver will cherish his memory always. Walter’s legacy is one of faith, family, compassion, and a generous heart. He lived fully, loved deeply, and gave freely. He will forever remain in the hearts of all who loved him. Visitation will be from 1-8pm Friday, November 21st at Davis Family Funeral Home & Crematory - Walker Brown Chapel, 4201 Nowata Rd., Bartlesville, 74006 (918) 333-7665. Funeral service will be 11am Saturday, November 22nd at Davis Family Funeral Home & Crematory - Walker Brown Chapel. Services are under the direction of Carter Davis and Davis Family Funeral Home - Walker Brown Chapel.

Walter Eugene Hayes

February 14, 1959 - November 3, 2025