James Ronald Hayes, known to many as Ronnie or (Little) Rabbit, passed away May 20, 2026 at the age of 91. He is preceded in death by his wife, Sarah; his sister, Mary Ann Robertson; and his parents, Romey Hayes and Blanche Hayes Ainsworth.

Ronnie was born and raised in Camden, Arkansas. After graduating from Camden High School, he proudly served in the U.S. Army for 2 years and 9 months. Soon after returning to Camden, he began his 41 years of employment at International Paper Company, Bag Pack Division.

He saw the love of his life, Sarah, for the first time in the coffee shop across the street from the mill. They were married in 1962, built a house in '65, and started a family in '66. He was spoiled by her every day of their 55-year marriage. They welcomed two daughters into their lives. Their families continued to grow as the daughters married and each had 2 sons of their own.

Ronnie was an active member of the First Presbyterian church in Camden. For many years he served as a deacon or an elder. He always carried his daughters to church when they were young and often unlocked the building, made the coffee, turned on the heat or air, and counted and deposited the money from the offering plate.

Ronnie's hobby was driving Sarah to quilt stores around the Ark-La-Tex. He also enjoyed watching the Razorbacks play football, playing Rook, and visiting with friends at Cardinal Cafe. He loved spending time with his 4 grandsons and any and all family gatherings. Ronnie always appreciated phone calls from two very special cousins, Helen Scheffel and Sue Pickett.

He is survived by his daughters and their husbands; Alicia and Chris Campbell and Rhonda and Ken Mathis. He is also survived by 4 grandsons; Austin, Connor, Aaron, and Hunter.

A visitation will be held from 5:00PM to 7:00PM Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Proctor Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be 2:00PM Sunday, May 24, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church, 313 Greening St., Camden, AR.  Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Camden, AR.