Obituary of Douglas "Doug" William Hayes, Glace Bay

It is with deep sadness and much love that we, the family of Douglas “Doug” Hayes, announce his peaceful passing, surrounded by his family, on Friday, March 10, 2023 at age 76. 

Born in Glace Bay to Mildred “Millie” (Moffatt) Hayes and the late Howard Hayes, Doug was the oldest of three sons. 

Doug held the unofficial title of “The Tax Man of Glace Bay”. Over the past twenty years, Doug had amassed an extraordinary clientele to whom he provided methodical advice, expert financial guidance and personalized service. 

Doug will always be remembered for the pride he took in his home, especially his gardens and love of landscaping. Nothing brought him more joy than spending endless hours making sure his yard was pristine and then sitting back and enjoying the fruits of his labour. 

Doug was the epitome of a family man. His world revolved around caring for and protecting those close to him. There wasn't a battle from which Doug would shy away when it came to ensuring his children's happiness and success.  

Doug married his soulmate Barbara McDonald in 1973. For 49 years, they created and cultivated the true meaning of love. Their children, Amanda and Kent, were the centre of his world. Doug was never more proud than when he spoke about his children. He protected them fiercely, loved them deeply and instilled in them the importance of family and education. Doug’s most important role was that of “papa”. His grandchildren, Emma and Ryan, knew they were loved immensely by him as he was their biggest champion. Ever the proud grandfather, he made sure they were afforded every opportunity to help them grow into successful and happy young adults. 

Left to always carry Doug in their hearts are his mother Mildred (Moffatt) Hayes; his loving wife and partner of 49 years Barbara Hayes; daughter Amanda (Sean Burnett), Cole Harbour; son Kent (Emir Delic), Halifax; grandchildren Emma and Ryan Toope, Cole Harbour; brother Wayne (Wendy); nieces Kelsey and Zaria, British Columbia; and a special friend and honorary brother Blair Slade, Glace Bay. 

Besides his father Howard, Doug was predeceased by his brother Ian Kent and brother-in-law Daniel “Butch” McDonald.

We, the family, would like to extend our sincerest thanks to Dr. Anne Frances D’Intino for the care and kindness she showed Doug and our family. Your compassion and that of your team will forever live in our hearts and memories. 

Cremation has taken place. Visitation for Doug will be held on Sunday afternoon, March 19, 2023, from 12:50 pm to 1:50 pm, followed by a service at 2 pm and a reception, all taking place at V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 16 Reserve Street, Glace Bay, NS. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton County.

On line condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca