Norman E "Cowboy" Hayes left to be with our Lord and Savior on January 20, 2022.

He was born to Emery and Ruby Hayes on March 26, 1933 in rural Shannon County, Missouri and raised in Bunker, Missouri. Considered to be a "fair" student, the only class he failed was typewriting.  He left Missouri in 1952 and joined the Air Force for four years as a jet engine mechanic, stationed in France during the Korean War. After service, Norman settled in Texas and was employed by East Texas Motor Freight where he was a real rodeo cowboy. He leased pasture for Joe and Eagle, his beloved show horses, and captured the heart of the landowners' daughter, Gloria Lueker.

Norman and Gloria raised three daughters in Texas. Norman was a 32-degree Mason and Shriner, a Christian, hard-headed, stubborn, a wonderful dance partner, and a great secret keeper. Norman retired from Arkansas Best Freight in 1999 and discovered, to the surprise of his family, that he was an excellent golf player.

Survivors include Gloria, his wife of 53 years and daughters Teri Winn of Texas; Lisa McBrayer (Terry) of Missouri; and Ginny Marshall (Lindsay) of Arkansas. He is also survived by his sister, Wanda Davis of Missouri, grandchildren Stephanie, Jonathan, Alexandra, and Peyton, great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, family, and friends. He was predeceased by Angela Kay Hayes (infant daughter); Gerald Hayes (brother) and Linda Wilson (sister).

Cowboy always wanted to return to Texas and will be laid to rest in Restland Cemetery in Waskom, Texas. Services will be held January 24 at 2:00 o'clock with Lee Gill officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family requests you please perform random acts of kindness.