Smethport - Leo E. Hayes, 81, of Lewis Run, passed away Sunday (August 31, 2025) at Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.

He was born January 13, 1944 in Bradford, the son of Arthur and Bertha (Munn) Hayes.

Leo was a 1961 graduate of Bradford High School and earned both his B.S. and Masters Degrees in English Education from I.U.P. 

He served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam.

Mr. Hayes worked as a painter for many years and was a member of the I.U.P.A.T. (International Union of Painters and Allied Trades), as well as Local Union #110 and Erie #549.

Leo was a member of the American Legion; Bucktail Post #138 and VFW Post #2497, both of Smethport. He was a lifetime member of the NRA and a member of the Bradford Pistol Club.

He is survived by:

Two sons: Arthur Hayes of Allegany, NY and Andrew Hayes of Olean, NY

Grandchildren: Michael, Abigail, Landon and Nora Hayes

One sister: Elsie Robertson of Bradford

And several nieces and nephews

In addition to his parents, Leo was preceded in death by two brothers.

In keeping with Leo’s wishes, there will be no vistitation or services.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to your local Fire Department. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.