(CHANGE OF SERVICE DUE TO WEATHER)
Vincent J. (Vinnie) Hayes, 99, of Brockton passed away on Sunday, December 13, 2020. He was the loving husband of the late Mary (Lightfoot) Hayes. Vinnie was the son of the late Michael and Helen (Welch) Hayes. He was born, raised and lived his entire life as a proud Brocktonian.
He was a 1939 graduate of Brockton High School where he had a reputation as a star athlete, particularly baseball. He made headlines playing for Brockton High, American Legion League and played professional baseball for the Geneva Red Birds. Vinnie served in the US Army during WWII and was stationed in Italy as a medic.
Vinnie enjoyed old cowboy movies, golf, watching the Red Sox, spending time with family, photography and collecting vintage postcards depicting Brockton throughout the 19th and 20th century. He often gave slide shows for many of the surrounding senior centers, showing his pictures and narrating a history of Brockton. He was also a frequent contributor to the Enterprise column “By Our Readers.” Vinnie also coached many young baseball players with Downey Memorial Little League.
He is survived by his daughters, Patricia Hayes of Rockland, Maureen Urbani of Brockton with whom he made his home, and his son Kevin Hayes and his wife Pamela of Brockton. In addition he has 4 grandchildren, Robert Urbani and his wife Jen, Beth Urbani Najjar, Meghan Hayes and Kevin Hayes. He also has 4 great grandchildren, Brianna, Isabella, Elysia and Alex, and 1 great-great grandson Ashton. He was pre-deceased by his brothers Joe and Walter (Jack) and his sister Helen Caffelle. Vinnie also leaves nieces, nephews and other extended family.
Visiting hours in the Conley Funeral Home 138 Belmont St. (rte. 123) Brockton on Wednesday December 16, from 4-6pm with a prayer service at 5:30pm.
Graveside Service will held Friday, December 18, at 11am in Calvary Cemetery. In following COVID guideline, masks must be worn and social distancing observed.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the cause of your choice or simply perform an extra act of kindness in these trying times.