Stella Watress Smedley Hayes, age 90, of Soldier, passed away Monday, April 1, 2024, at Carter Nursing and Rehab Center in Grayson.

She was born March 3, 1934, in Clearfield, and was the daughter of the late Linzzie Becken Smedley and Lola Baldridge Smedley.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William K. "Bill" Hayes on July 23, 1999; three brothers, Murlin Smedley, Joseph Smedley, Linzzie Smedley, Jr.; and three sisters, Martha Hayes, Loretta Dail, and Mary Smith.

Stella is survived by a nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews, a special great niece and caregiver, Jatonda Ousley of Soldier; and other extended family.

She was a homemaker and was of the Baptist faith. A devout Christian, Stella enjoyed being a Sunday school teacher, singing gospel hymns, caring for her flowers, especially keeping the dandelions picked. She will be greatly missed and always remembered with appreciation and love.

The family would like to thank Carter Nursing and Rehab Center for their compassion and care of Stella in her final years.

Funeral services will be conducted 11 a.m. Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with Brother Rick Crank officiating.  Burial will follow in Clearfield Cemetery.

Pallbearers:  Tayton Ousley, John Ousley, Jamey Lee, Brandon Lee, Joseph Lee, and Dan Goszczynski.

Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 5, 2024, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351.

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com