James B. Hayes, 86, of East Haddam, beloved husband of, Kathleen (Simler) Hayes, died Friday, October 3, 2025, at Hartford Hospital.  He was born in Meriden, son of the late James and Dorothy (Knapp) Hayes. James was a veteran serving with the US Army. Prior to his retirement, he worked for Pratt & Whitney. He was a member of the American Legion Color Guard of Old Saybrook, participated in the Rogers Rangers' War Reenactment, and was also an avid bowler.

Besides his wife, Kathleen, James is survived by his daughters, Ami Lynn Overton of Meriden, Cindy Boucher and her husband Francis of Plainville, brother Robert Hayes, sisters Judy Masse of Cheshire, Mary Lou Vasquez of Meriden, nine grandchildren, one great grandchild, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Thursday October 9th from 5 to 6:30 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 6:30 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St. Middletown. Burial with military honors will be held on Friday October 10th at 10 a.m. at the State Veterans' Cemetery, Bow Lane, Middletown.

To share memories or express condolences online please visit http://www.biegafuneralhome.com