Suzan Hayes

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Suzan Ruth Hayes, age 69 of Galena passed away on August 20, 2026 at Galena Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Suzan was born on April 25, 1957 to Burl Leon Richardson, Sr. and Marion Catherine (Windecker) Richardson. Although she wasn't born in Southeast Kansas, she was proud to call herself a lifetime resident of Galena. She had worked as a cashier at Dale's IGA in Galena and Food 4 Less in Joplin, but the job she cared most about was being a homemaker and stay-at-home mom. Suzan was known to everyone as "Grandma". Summer vacations gave the family many opportunities to travel and make memories together. She enjoyed crocheting, and loved caring for her dogs, her grandkids, and her great-grandkids.

She was united in marriage with Ralph G. Hayes, Sr on July 12, 1974. He preceded her in death on August 30, 2016.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, Burl, Sr and Marion Richardson; her aunt and uncle, Bettie and Bill Richardson; three brothers, Burl Leon Richardson Jr, David Richardson, and Lester Richardson; and one brother-in-law, Rodney William Hayes.

She is survived by one son, Ralph Hayes Jr, (wife, Frankie) of Eufaula, OK and his children Chance, Courtney, Kylea, Constance, and Axel.

She is also survived by one daughter, Maggie Mae Hayes (boyfriend, Edward Sturgis) of Galena and her children Hunter, Hayley (boyfriend, Tobias DiCamillo), Arysta (boyfriend, Evan Turner); great-grandchildren, Jenna and Jax (Mother Brittany West).

Additional survivors include one sister, Cathie Rion of Miami, OK; and two brothers, Andy Richardson and Tony Richardson, both of Joplin.

Mrs. Hayes has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena for cremation. The family will host a memorial service at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.