Kemp William "Bill" Hayes

Kemp William “Bill” Hayes was born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, on March 11, 1943, to Helen Hayes, née McGrath, and Orrill William Hayes. He passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026, following an extended illness. He is survived by his son, Russell and wife, Sandra, of Austin, TX, grandchildren Brendan Hayes and Kristen Hayes, great-grandson Oliver Hayes, great-granddaughter Eowyn Hayes, sisters Suzie Bray of Holyoke, MA, Celeste and husband Kyle High, of Amarillo, TX, and Tina and husband, John Chambers, of North Port, Florida, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as his former wife, Phyllis Hayes. He was proceeded in death by his parents, three children, Heather, Lara, and Mark, sister Kerry Matthews, and brothers-in-law Robert Matthews and Kevin Bray. Because his father was a professional baseball player, Bill spent much of his youth traveling and frequently changing schools. He later attended St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Arts in History and International Relations. Bill served in the US Army and Army Reserves, retiring in 2003 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His passion for teaching led him to a career that spanned more than three decades, including time at San Antonio College, Texas Military Institute, Antonian High School, Tavares Middle School and High School, and Leesburg High School. He was named Teacher of the Year, National Teacher of the Year, and Social Studies Teacher of the Year. He and his family made Leesburg home in 1978 where Bill spent the next 48 years as a valued member of the community. He was a member of the Leesburg Historic Preservation Board, Lake County FEMA, Fraternal Order of Police, Military Police Association, Reserve Officers Association, Sons of the American Revolution, and American Historical Association. He was active in the Lions Club, Rotary Club, and, especially, the Central Florida Council of Boy Scouts of America. As an Eagle Scout, he spent many years helping aspiring Eagle Scouts with their projects. He was especially proud of receiving the BSA Silver Beaver Award. Bill was also highly regarded as an expert on serial killers and executions, with published articles and OpEd Pieces in various publications. He also enjoyed speaking on Ghost Stories and Ghost Towns of Lake County. Bill was famous for regaling people with his stories of adventures and escapades, and his “food days” at LHS, which left many students asking, “What did I just eat?”. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. He had a generous spirit and a huge heart. He will be greatly missed.

Kemp William "Bill" Hayes

March 11, 1943 - July 18, 2026