Brenda Phifer Hayes

Brenda Phifer Hayes, known affectionately as Brenda to her loved ones, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2024, at the age of 82, in Greenville, South Carolina. Born on February 16, 1942, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, to the late Coit and Rosalie Phifer, Brenda grew up with a warm Southern charm that she carried with her throughout her life.

Brenda was a proud graduate of Fort Mill High School's class of 1960. Her life was a testament to the enduring power of love and family. She found her greatest joy in her role as a devoted wife to her husband, William M. Hayes, Jr., and as a nurturing mother to her children, William M. Hayes, III (Suzanne), Audrey H. Bragg (David), and Ashley H. Barefield. Her family was the center of her world, and she embraced every moment with them with her whole heart.

She was a guiding light to her grandchildren, William M. Hayes IV (Stefania Conte), Turner Hayes, Hattie Hayes, Hailey Mofield (Justin), Beau Barefield, Fletcher Maxwell, and Griffin Maxwell, who will carry her legacy forward. Brenda's life was enriched by her loving sister, Karen Hyatt (Richard), and she cherished the memories created with her nephews, Tyler Propst and Lee Barber, and her niece, Kate Barber. Though she was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Ann Hayes, Brenda's memory will live on through the love and laughter she shared with all who knew her.

Brenda's life was one of active service and commitment to her community. Before her health began to wane, she was an integral part of Mitchell Road Presbyterian Church, where she experienced significant spiritual growth and fellowship. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and her unwavering love for others.

Her interests were as boundless as her energy, especially when it came to supporting her family. Brenda was present at every event, big or small, celebrating her family's achievements and milestones with great enthusiasm. In her later years, she exemplified the true essence of a caregiver, dedicating herself to the wellbeing of her mother-in-law, Mimi, and her own mother, Nanni. Brenda's servant's spirit shone brightly as she helped others, always placing their needs above her own.

Those who knew Brenda will remember her as loving, funny, and thoughtful. Her infectious laughter and her ability to make everyone feel special will be dearly missed. Brenda's presence was a gift to those around her, and her absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have been touched by her generous spirit.

As we bid farewell to Brenda Phifer Hayes, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that was given freely and fully to those she loved. Her warmth, her humor, and her deep compassion have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many, and her memory will be cherished forever.

Brenda's life will be honored in a private ceremony, where her family and close friends will gather to share stories, to laugh, to cry, and to remember a remarkable woman whose life was a true embodiment of love and selflessness. As we say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing that Brenda's legacy of love and laughter will continue to echo through generations.