Master of the mandolin who entertained and inspired countless fellow musicians and fans throughout his life, Gene received an award in the mid70's as second-best mandolin picker in the nation. He appeared on the Grand Ole Opry and tutored country star Rhonda Vincent on the mandolin while he played in her father’s band "The Sally Mountain Show,", and shared the stage with his idol, Bill Monroe, during numerous Bluegrass Festivals.
Gene will be sadly missed by all whose lives he touched. A lifelong friend and fellow musician in the early years, Mr. Bob Taylor of Sedalia, upon learning that Gene was coming “Home” to Sedalia this year, fondly stated, “He was my Clayton Delaney.”
Gene was preceded in death in death by his parents, a young sister, Hazel, and his
brothers, Charles, Neil and Howard. He leaves behind family and loved ones that
includes his brother, Bob Hayes and his wife Betty, of Green Ridge; sister-in-law Ruby
Hayes, Ex-wife Evelyn Groves and her husband Lee, of Sedalia; three children Linda
Heydt, Pam Riggs and Gary Hayes; six grandchildren, Justin Huffhines, Tara and
Landon Matney, and Jessie, Jamie and Lexie Hayes.
A brief funeral service were held at 2:00 p.m Wednesday, December 6, 2006 at
Heckart/Gillespie Colonial Chapel with Rev. Alvin Sipe officiating. Burial was in Crown Hill Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Landon Matney, Mike Baslee, Richard Schlobohm, Rick Hayes, Mike Brecht and Michael Stokes. Honorary bearers were Justin Huffhines, Tara Matney, Bob Taylor, Sandy Taylor and Craig Hughes.
