Esther Lucille Hayes, 93, of Scott. City, Missouri passed away October 03, 2025, at the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau, Missouri surrounded by her family.

She was born to the late Minnie and John Rich on March 22, 1932.

She married the late Ralph Franklin Hayes September 08, 1950.  They resided in Senath, Missouri until 1969 when they relocated to  Scott City, Missouri.  Ralph preceded her in death in 1997. She is survived by three children: Melba Parker of Scott City, Missouri, Patsy Hayes of Wappapello, Missouri,  and Pam (Steve) Buchheit of Cape Girardeau, Missouri.  She is a cherished grandmother of three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren: Sarah (Terry) Burford of New Hamburg, Missouri: Joshua Buchheit of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and Jonathan Buchheit of Jackson, Missouri: Alexis Lewallen of Fredericktown, Missouri and Parker Burford of New Hamburg, Missouri.  Lucille was known as Aunt "Cill" to many nieces and nephews,  In addition to her spouse, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Elvis (Opal) Rich and Joe Rich.

Lucille was a member of the First Baptist Church in Scott City, Missouri.  She enjoyed gardening and had a green thumb and love for flowers,  She loved her family and spending time with them.  She did  not meet a stranger and was a friend to many.  She was full of laughter, quick witted and had a great sense of humor.  For her friends and caregivers at the Lutheran Home, she will be remembered as the Diet Coke Lady, but above all she will be remembered for her humor, outgoing nature, love of family and "telling it like it is".  She leaves behind beautiful memories of love, laughter, and life.  She will be missed by many.

Services will be held Monday, October 06, 2025, 2:00 PM at the McDaniel Chapel in Senath with Mr. Ken Strong officiating.

The visitation will begin at 1:00 and continue until service time. Burial will be in the Senath Cemetery.

Honored to serve as pallbearers: Steve Buchheit, Josh Buchheit, Jonathan Buchheit, Terry Burford, Jimmy Hayes, Wayne Ridings, Mike Fowler and Parker Burford.

A  special thank you to the Lutheran Home and Providence Hospice for the excellent care, compassion, and friendship they provided her.