Harlin Hayes, age 98, of Big Clifty, Kentucky, passed away on Friday, September 11, 2026, at the Veterans Hospital in Louisville, KY.

He was born on August 16, 1928, in Edmonson County, Kentucky to the late Oliver and Eva Jane Duvall Hayes.

Harlin lived a long and meaningful life marked by quiet strength, faithful service, hard work, and an enduring love for his family.

Growing up on a farm, Harlin learned early that a good life was built through honest work, faith, family, and care for one’s neighbors. He carried those values with him wherever life led. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service—a lasting reflection of his courage and sacrifice. A man of steadfast faith, he was baptized in 1958 and was a dedicated member of Little Clifty United Methodist Church. Membership in the American Legion Post 81 in Leitchfield, KY provided a connection to fellow veterans.

Farming was far more than Harlin’s livelihood; it was part of who he was. He found contentment in the land, in watching his crops grow from his front porch, in the excitement of an auction, and in the satisfaction of a good trade. Those who loved him will remember his practical wisdom, determined spirit, and the way he found meaning and enjoyment in the simple, familiar rhythms of country life.

Harlin was preceded in death by many whom he loved dearly: his beloved wife of 49 years, Betty Jo White Hayes; his sons, Leon and Leonard Hayes; his grandson, Jacob Skaggs; his son-in-law, Dale Basham; his parents; and eight siblings, Stoy, Charlie, Carl, Herman, Edna, Gladys, Nancy Jane, and Anna Pearl. Their memories remained a treasured part of his life.

Above all, Harlin loved his family. They were the center of his world and the source of some of his greatest pride and happiness. His legacy lives on through his daughters, Bonita Miller (Kenneth), Vicki Basham, Valeria Hayes (Jody Bingham), and Melinda O’Donnell (Patrick); his daughter-in-law, Sharon Hayes; and his grandchildren, Dedra Whittington, Chad Hayes (Marisa), Jason Hayes (Laura Beth), Ryan Hayes, Quentin Miller (Alyssa), Clayton Basham (Morgan), Jerrad Skaggs (Stephanie), Caitlyn Kilgore (Derek), Erin O’Donnell (Braxton McCrady), and Makenzie O’Donnell (Kaitlyn Grace). He is also lovingly remembered by 19 great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Allene Hayes; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and his Church family and friends. Each of them carries a part of his story forward, and the love, lessons, and memories he gave them will remain in their hearts for generations.

Harlin’s family will forever be grateful for the love, laughter, strength, and memories he shared throughout his remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor his memory may make a contribution to the Little Clifty United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund or the Claggett United Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday, (September 21, 2026) at the Dermitt Funeral Home in Leitchfield. Burial will be in the Little Clifty United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday and from 9:00 a.m. Monday until time of services.