Melissa Marie Hayes – Benton, IL

Melissa Marie Hayes, 40, of Otterson Road in Benton, passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

Melissa was born on July 23, 1983, to Kenneth Hayes and Karen Greeney at Franklin Hospital in Benton, IL.

After Melissa received her GED, she began working all kinds of jobs. Melissa’s last job was at Mike’s Drive In as a cook. Melissa met Chad Wallace in the late 2000’s. Melissa and Chad went on to have two children, Hailey Wallace, 20 years of age and Mauro Wallace, 21 years of age. After Chad passed away, Melissa then started figuring out life on her own. Melissa spent her time outside. She loved to walk, she loved hikes and pretty views. She mainly worked the night shift at Mike’s Drive In. Before work, she would walk to the tanning company where she would spend tons of time in those tanning beds. She would always make sure she had time to walk down to the gas station to get a pop and play on the gambling machines.

Melissa was a do-er. She did everything for everyone even when they wouldn’t ask. When it came to Melissa’s children, she would be there in a heartbeat. Melissa had several active roles in her lifetime, she worked at Anarchy Angels, where she helped others fight their addictions. She would make donations so these homeless addicts weren’t struggling as much and then tried to start a women’s group. She had a few women show up to the meetings and that made her so happy. She helped everyone when she had her own battles to face.

She was a loving friend and mother. She was her children’s biggest cheerleaders. Melissa always had your back.

Most of all, Melissa will be remembered for her goofy smile and silly jokes she cracked. She will be greatly missed by all.

Melissa is survived by her father, Kenneth (Christina) Hayes; her mother, Karen (James) Greeney; her son, Mauro Michael Wallace; her daughter, Hailey Rae Wallace; her grandson, Westin Wallace; her sister, Elizabeth Parent; her brothers, Matthew T. Hayes, Brad William Greeney and Tyler Schofeld and numerous nieces and nephews.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Per Melissa’s wishes, cremation will take place.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.