Robin K. Hayes

Robin Hayes, 65, of Evansville, died Tuesday July 23, 2019 at the Linda E. White Hospice House following a brief illness. Robin was widely known for her vivacious, contagious personality and distinctive laugh. She had the unique ability to make each person she encountered feel as though they were the most important person in Robin’s world. Her legions of friends were a testament to her sincere and caring nature. Robin retired in 2016 after a 41-year career with the City of Evansville Department of Parks and Recreation, serving six mayors. She began her career in 1975 as a Playground Supervisor and retired as Superintendent of Recreation. For many years, Robin served as Secretary of the Evansville Parks Foundation and remained a member until her death. Robin was the boss, or co-worker, everyone adored. She was especially grateful to receive a Key to the City upon her retirement. Robin was the personality that everyone in a room would gravitate toward. She loved life and embraced people from all walks of life. A satisfying night out for Robin included an adult beverage or two with good friends at any of her favorite haunts. The perfect night would start at the Peep Hole and end with a nightcap at Dilegge’s. Always known by friends and family for her wit, Robin had many quips in her repertoire that made people smile or laugh, but perhaps none more humorous, or used more frequently, than when she would encourage her loving husband to end a conversation: “Wrap it up, Phil. I’m bored.” Robin was a 1972 graduate of North High School and attended the University of Southern Indiana. The treasure of Robin’s life was her love for family and friends. Yes, she adored her loving husband of 24 years, Phil, but the daily phone calls and Friday afternoon visits with her daughter, Rian, brought her more joy and happiness than a mother could imagine. Also surviving are: son-in-law Josh Kisner of Evansville; stepdaughters Elizabeth Hayes Gorham (Chris) of Watertown, MA and Courtney Sturgeon (Arron) of Belmont, MA; grandchildren Chloe and Theo Sturgeon of Belmont, MA; sister Lisa Nielsen of Milton, FL; cousin Kandy Dougherty (Mike) of Homosassa, FL; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Tammy and John Welcher; aunt Jeannie Flannigan and the many beloved cousins on the Storey side of the family. Robin was preceded in death by her parents Marge and Bob Storey; stepfather Evert Nalley; uncle Charlie Thompson and cherished friend Pam Fleming. The family would like to express its sincere appreciation to the loving care of the staff at the Linda E. White Hospice House. Visitation is scheduled from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Friday, July 26, 2019 at Pierre Funeral Home, 2601 W. Franklin Street. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday at the funeral home. In honor of Robin’s giving spirit, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Evansville Parks Foundation. Robin thoughtfully created a means by which to fund lifeguard certifications for students on a free or reduced lunch program, who otherwise could not afford the certification process. Gifts may be sent to the Evansville Parks Foundation, P.O. Box 3112, Evansville, IN 47730. Condolences may be made online at www.pierrefuneralhome.com.

Robin K. Hayes

February 7, 1954 - July 23, 2019