Richard Roger Hayes

SHARON — Richard Roger Hayes, 88, of Sharon, died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Feb. 13, 2018. He was the loving husband of Peggy (Lyman) Hayes. 

Richard was born on Sept.17, 1929, in New York City, the son of the late Margaret (D’Orsa) and John Hayes. 

After graduating from Fordham University, he served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. 

Richard began his Wall Street career at Merrill Lynch, within a few years was recruited to join Dean Witter as a manager and was quickly promoted to partner. At Dean Witter he was elevated further to the executive management committee and Board of Directors. 

He then joined Reynolds Security as a partner, and returned to Dean Witter through the merger of the two companies. He culminated his career at Dean Witter as associate national sales manager. After leaving Dean Witter he was a member of the Board of Directors at William D. Witter, Inc., an investment advisory firm in New York City.

Richard was a devoted father and husband, an avid traveler and adventurer and a loyal friend. He was committed to making the world better through his philanthropic spirit, leadership  and mentorship.

Richard is survived by his wife, Peggy (Lyman) Hayes; his children, Kathleen Hayes and her husband, Stephen Updegrove, Michael Hayes and his wife, Marianne Barnett, and Elizabeth (Hayes) Christopher and her husband, Scott Christopher; his stepson, Kevin Lynch and his wife, Julia Wynn; seven grandchildren; and two nieces and five nephews. 

He was predeceased by his  brother, John Daniel Hayes; and his late wife, Marie Martin Hayes.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the Hotchkiss Library of Sharon; and the Catholic Archdiocese of Hartford, Conn.

The funeral Mass was celebrated Feb. 19 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Lakeville. 

The Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon had care of arrangements.