Reaver Mae Hayes was the first born to the late Horace Sr. and Olather Shelby of Marlin, TX. She attended boarding school as a teenager in Austin, TX in the 1940s.
At an early age Reaver united with Antioch Baptist Church in Marlin, TX where she accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior. Upon moving to Dallas, she joined Carver Heights Baptist Church and later became a charted member of Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church.
Reaver met Mr. Acie B. Hayes in 1951. Unbeknownst to her, it was the beginning of a very long relationship. Acie was not deterred by the coolness of her reception; he was a man in love. His spirit of pursuit was matched only by the spirit that radiated from Reaver. On September 21, 1952, their lives were forever entwined in Holy Matrimony. Her beloved precedes her in death.
Sister Reaver Mae Hayes found solace working and supervising others in her garden. As an avid walker, she was known to carry a big stick and take whatever came her way without fear or hesitation. That practiced, regale stride, she carried in her everyday life. Reaver's love of travel and new places brought her to different corners of this hemisphere, and she was able to share her passion with family and friends. One of Aunt Mae's greatest joys, was just sitting in the company of family and friends. She surrounded herself with love.
Sister Hayes faithfully sang in the Antioch Senior Choir and the Women of Worship Choir. She was also an active member of the Mother's Board. Because of her generosity of spirit, people were drawn to Reaver. She loved her church. Her love, support and silent presence encouraged many.
Also preceding in death is her sister, Mae Helen Shelby and step-granddaughter, Lois Robbins. She leaves to cherish her memory and honor her life lessons: two sisters, Laura Hall (Thomas) and Erma Jean Taylor (Terry); two brothers, Curley Shelby (late-Doris) and Horace Shelby Jr. (late-Lula) all of Dallas, TX. She also leaves one step-daughter, Lois Robbins (Sherman) of Waxahachie; 3 step-grandchildren, Denita Arnold, Aimee Robbins, and Sherman Robbins Jr., best friend, Betty Milton, a host of nieces and nephews, her extended family the Suss', other relatives, and many friends. Reaver's commitment to charity, church and family will keep her memory alive in our hearts. She was a lady of great style and intelligence. Her grace will be with us forever.
Proverbs 31:25 Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
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