Obituary of Deborah Sharon Hayes

Deborah Sharon Hayes of Saint John, wife of Carl Hayes, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 12, 2013 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Saint John on March 21, 1952, she was a daughter of Thelma (Dunphy) McMillan and the late George McMillan. Debbie worked for more than 30 years with NB Tel/Aliant. She enjoyed travelling, dancing, shopping, decorating, gardening and spending time with her family and friends. Debbie was a rare and special woman, selflessly giving of herself for the benefit of others. As a wife there was no you and me only "us". Just being with her was enough. She was devoted to her children, mother and siblings. She doted over her grandchildren, who brought her so much joy; she will now watch over them as their special guardian angel. In addition to her husband of 28 years, Debbie is survived by her chosen children, Adam (Monique) of Halifax, Melissa of Saint John, and Sonja of Ontario; grandchildren Sebastien, Paige, Alice, Simon, Aiden and Ella; her siblings, George McMillan (Sue) of Saint John, John McMillan (Maureen) of Halifax, Gordon McMillan (Cheryl), Dawn Marie Durley (Bruce), and Crystal Koven (Mark), all of Saint John; special nieces and nephews Steven, Zachary, Sarah, Olivia, and Hannah, as well as several other nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, George and brothers, Bruce and Edward McMillan. Resting at Brenan's Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424), with visiting on Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. Debbie loved colour; at her request, bright and vibrant summer attire at the funeral service will be a special tribute to her. The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 16, 2013 at 2:00 PM from the First Wesleyan Church, Boar’s Head Road, Saint John. Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Followed by a reception to be held at First Wesleyan Church, Boar’s Head Road. For those who wish, remembrances to First Steps, the Autism Society, the Children’s Wish Foundation, or the IWK Children’s Hospital would be appreciated by the family.