Johnnie Ruth Hayes of Chattanooga, Tennessee went to be with the Lord on September 23,
2025.
Johnnie was born on March 17, 1946 in Chattanooga to Minnie Lee Pruitt. She was a beautician
for over 40 years in Lookout Valley. She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Isaac Payton
Hayes, her son Jason McKeel (Tiffany) of Charleston, SC, her daughter Cameron McKeel, and
bonus daughters Carlene West and Tiffaney Hayes, all of Chattanooga. Johnnie was incredibly
proud of her grandchildren, Cole, Chloe, Zak, Casey, Ellie, and Jack, and her great-
granddaughter Moxie. She is also survived by her sisters: Janie Bridges, Sue Cranford, and
Judy Schoocraft, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Johnnie loved helping people look pretty, and she met her husband when he walked into the
salon one day for a haircut. Payton had to get more than one haircut before she would go out
with him. She finally consented when he made her laugh. She enjoyed riding motorcycles and
camping with Payton and their friends, and any time she chose the dinner menu, it was tacos.
Nothing was too spicy for her. Later in life she loved watching crime dramas on TV with Payton
beside her and their dog, Trudy, in her lap. Johnnie spent her career making other people look
good, but she spent her life making people feel like they mattered.
The family would like to thank Hearth Hospice and their staff, especially Amanda and Becky, for
their thoughtful, compassionate care. 

A graveside service will be held at Chattanooga National Cemetery Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, at 11:00 am est.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hearth Hospice in Johnnie’s name.