E. Hayes Rowan, 87, of Madill, Okla., passed away on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at the Olimpia’s Senior Care Center in Willis, Texas. He was born on August 31, 1935, in Haskell County, Texas to the late Thomas Lewis Rowan and Evelyn Elizabeth Colvin Rowan Gill.
Hayes was raised in Haskell County and graduated from Rule High School in 1955. He later attended Texas Tech University before joining the Army, serving from 1958 to 1964. Hayes married Betty LaJoyce Bond on December 28, 1957, in Midland, Texas and she preceded him in death on March 8, 2022.
He worked as a machinist and computer tech. for NCR Corp. and also owned a small business, Plainview Porta Sign, in Plainview, Texas. He was a member of the bowling league in Plainview, Texas, and a member of Experimental Aircraft Association where he received his pilot’s license. Hayes was a member of the First Baptist Church in Madill, Deacon at the Parkview Baptist, and First Baptist Church of Plainview. He was an avid John Wayne fan and loved watching old western movies. Hayes also enjoyed woodworking, gardening, raising horses and livestock. And loved old classic cars.
Hayes is survived by children: Sherri Williamson of Huntsville, Texas, Sheila Dempsey and husband Gary of Madill, Okla., Kristi Walters and husband Philip of Elwood, Kan.; grandchildren: Nathan Reeves, Garrett Reeves, Sarah Dempsey, Allison Dempsey, Rebekah Dempsey, Truett Walters, Ethan Walters, Chase Walters, Brandon Williamson, Justin Williamson; great-grandchildren: Carsen Walters, Ruby Reeves, Hazel Reeves, Kylen Williamson, Mia Williamson, Jetson Reeves; brother: Terry L. Rowan and wife Mary Ellen of College Station, Texas; and sisters-in-law: Barbara Rowan of Goodyear, Ariz., Carolyn Mayes, Beard, Texas.
Hayes was preceded in death by his parents; wife; two brothers: M. D. and John H. Rowan; one sister, Alice Glenn; three brothers-in-law: Grady Glenn, James Cardin and Tommy Mayes; two sisters-in-law: Fran Cardin and June Rowan and one son in-law, Bill Williamson.
Casket Bearers: Nathan Reeves, Garrett Reeves, Truett Walters, Ethan Walters, Chase Walters
Honorary Bearers: Sarah Dempsey, Allison Dempsey, Rebekah Dempsey and Brandon Williamson, Justin Williamson
A memorial service in his honor was held on Saturday, May 27, 2023.
Arrangements under the direction of Watts Funeral Home.