Joseph Thomas Hayes

Mr. Joseph T. Hayes, 87, of Milford MA passed away peacefully at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston MA on Wednesday (April 30, 2025).

Joseph was born in Milford MA, the son of the late Joseph T. Hayes and the late Helen P. (Callery) Hayes. Beloved husband of Marie (Mussulli) Hayes for 22 years before her passing in 1982. Loving father of Denise Hayes and the late Gregory Hayes who died in 1997. Cherished grandfather of Jeffrey Brown of Milford MA, Christopher Brown & his wife Katie and his precious great grandson Scott Brown also of Milford MA.

Joseph loved the immense time spent with his two grandsons. They shared an enormous amount of laughter, stories, and adventures together — moments that will always be remembered and treasured.

Their connection was clear in the way they laughed together. It was obvious how deeply he impacted both Jeffrey and Christopher.

Joseph attended Milford Public Schools, graduating from the former St. Mary’s High School in 1956. Then went on to graduate from the Worcester Boys Trade School in Worcester MA in 1959. He was first employed as a young man at the former Stylon Corporation located in Milford MA as a draftsman, then general manager until its closing. Later as lead draftsman then project manager for the International Paper Company for many years until retiring.

Over the years he not only obtained the training for the drafting trade but also got licensed as a journeyman electrician and in real estate.

Upon retirement he had a successful embroidery and screen printing business that had many customers frequent his business such as the Milford & Hopedale Public Schools, Milford and Weston Fire Departments, as well as many other local businesses.

Joseph also leaves behind his sister Kathleen Haran, wife of the late Robert Haran of Worcester MA; his sister-in-law: Rena Fairbanks, wife of the late Donald Fairbanks of Milford MA; his sister-in-law: Marcia Marcello, wife of the late James Marcello of Milford MA; his sister-in-law: Janice Martino and her husband Chuck Martino of Milford MA; and brother-in-law: Earl Wagner of Milford MA; also several beloved nieces and nephews.

Joseph was the brother of the late Sheila Toomey, Felice O’Rourke, Patricia Wagner and David Hayes, PhD. He was also the brother-in-law of the late John Toomey and Richard O’Rourke. Also the uncle of the late Patrick O’Rourke and Maureen O’Rourke.

In accordance with his wishes cremation will take place. Joseph’s family will honor his wishes of having private services. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Edwards Memorial Funeral Home, 44 Congress Street, Milford MA. 

In support of the Oliva family, donations may be made to the Oliva Cancer Comfort Fund, c/o Milford Regional Healthcare Foundation, 14 Prospect Street, Milford MA 01757.   

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