Monte Leon Hayes Jr

Monte Leon Hayes, Jr., 74, of rural Jesup, died Friday, January 16, 2026.

He was born on June 29th in Marshalltown, Iowa, the son of Monte Hayes and Doris Ward Hayes. He graduated from Marshalltown High School, Class of 1969, and married Colleen Mullen on August 2, 1969. Monte continued his education at Marshalltown Community College and the University of Northern Iowa, studying Political Science. He proudly carried a copy of the United States Constitution with him throughout his life.

Monte served his country in the United States Navy from 1969-1973 as a Hospital Corpsman, including Vietnam service. His commitment to helping others continued long after his military years. He built a career as a social worker, serving his community in numerous roles: Executive Director of the Evansdale Municipal Housing Authority, Operation Threshold Flood Relief Coordinator, Black Hawk County Relief Office, and Youth Shelter Counselor for Black Hawk County. His work touched countless lives with compassion, steadiness, and integrity.

Monte was intelligent, sharp‑witted, and always ready with a joke or a perfectly timed comment. He never missed an opportunity to celebrate with family and friends. Many of the best memories of Monte are filled with laughter. For years, those who loved him gathered for an annual “MonteFest” to celebrate his birthday, complete with fireworks and a crowd of people who adored him. A lifelong lover of all thing’s baseball, Monte’s passion began as a Little League All‑Star #12 and stayed with him for the rest of his life. He played slow‑pitch softball, cheered on major league teams, and proudly coached his children through their own baseball and softball years. The game was woven into so many family memories, and it brought him endless joy.

Monte is survived by his wife of 56 years, Colleen Hayes, of Jesup; daughter, Shawn (Michael Ruby) Hayes of Evergreen, Colorado; son, Brian (Kendra) Hayes of Cedar Falls; and his grandchildren, Autumn (William) Weiland and their children Olive and Yhani of Cedar Falls; Kaydence Hayes of Cedar Falls; and Colin Hayes of Decorah. He is also survived by his siblings, Gregg (Toni) Hayes of San Antonio, Texas; Roger (Sue) Hayes of Cedar Rapids; Joe (Chris) Hayes of Marshalltown; and Dian (Glen) Ferneau of Marshalltown; along with many other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Monte’s wit and the mischievous twinkle in his eyes will forever be remembered. His nickname, “Grandpa Diva,” was lovingly earned and perfectly fitting. His humor, kindness, and large‑than‑life presence will be forever missed. His struggle is over; he can finally rest.

Monte’s family will be hosting a Celebration of his life on February 21, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Waterloo Elks Lodge #290, 407 E Park Ave., Waterloo.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Northeast Iowa Food Bank (https://www.neifb.org) and/or the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/iowa) in his honor.

Locke at Tower Park is serving the family. Please visit lockefuneralservices.com to offer your condolences.