Johnnie Eleanor Hodge Hayes, 91, entered her Heavenly home after a long, hard fought illness on Saturday, November 16th, 2024 at Hospice of South Georgia Inpatient Unit surrounded by her family. Born to the late David and Mattie Hodge of Screven, Georgia on July 30,1933, Johnnie grew up working on the family farm and learning to play the piano. Johnnie taught Home Economics for thirty- one years where during that time she was awarded Clayton County Teacher of the Year. She dedicated her life to teaching others how to take care of themselves as well as others. She constantly gave back to her community. Whether it be playing for numerous funerals and weddings, cooking and sending meals to those in need, or dedicating her time to various organizations around Wayne County, Johnnie never missed an opportunity to help someone in need. She  is preceded in death by her mother and father, David M. and Mattie Smith Hodge, daughter, Kathryn Marsan Hayes, and grandson, Bryson Hayes Swope.

She is survived by her husband of 70 loving years, William Calvin Hayes, daughter, Debbie (Jimmy) Matuse, granddaughters Lauren (Dylan) Poppell, and Rachel Stephens, and great grandchildren Braylon and Illa Faye Poppell along with a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at First United Methodist Church with Pastor Rebecca Duke-Barton, Rev. Henry Bass, and Dink NeSmith officiating. Interment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be her family and friends.

Family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 a.m. prior to services at the church.

Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup is in charge of arrangements.