Bernice R. Hayes

Bernice Rose Hayes, 84, of Hamburg, passed away on Wednesday, August 21 in her home in Tilden Twp. She was the wife of Robert L. Hayes, with whom she was going to celebrate her 65th wedding anniversary on August 29. Born in Drums, PA, she was the daughter of the late Elwood and Lorraine (Daubert) Smith. She also spent much of her youth with her family in Bridgeville, DE, even participating in the Miss Bridgeville pageant.

Throughout her life she was actively involved in various leadership positions within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She served as Pathfinder leader, Sabbath School teacher, Head Deaconess, Church Secretary and Clerk. And most recently was the Director of the Hamburg Community SDA Church Community Service Center, operating a food pantry and clothing distribution outreach alongside her husband.

Bea enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, as well as her extended family, often hosting and cooking meals for everyone. She loved children and through the years she was the caregiver for many little ones, she was known as "Aunt Bea" by both young and old alike.

Bea is survived by her husband, Robert and four children: David Hayes, Port Clinton, PA; Diane Lesher, wife of Todd, Port Clinton, PA; Denice Schaeffer, wife of Sam, Hamburg, PA and Dorene Moyer, partner of Matt Estermyer, Orwigsburg, PA; 12 grandchildren: Josh Hayes, partner of Beth Roland; NeTasha Bastian, wife of Garth; Robert Schaeffer, husband of Courtney; Steven Lesher, Jason Hayes, Brandi Moyer, Brittney Moyer, Micheal Lesher, Zachary Lesher, Jordyn Schaeffer, Brayden Estermyer, Bailey Estermyer; and five great-grandchildren: Colin and Shea Bastian, Giselle Zdunowski, Shilo Hayes, Knox Schaeffer. She is also survived by two brothers Robert Smith and Charles Smith, a sister Elaine Rust and a sister-in-law Jean Smith.

She is predeceased by a sister Dorothy Melson, a brother-in-law, Jack Melson, a brother, Kenneth Smith, and a granddaughter, Samantha Schaeffer.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hamburg Community SDA Church Community Services Center at 22 Willow Rd, Hamburg, PA 19526.

Kuhn Funeral Home, Hamburg, is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be written at www.KuhnFuneralHomes.com.