Ruth Hayes passed away peacefully at the age of 98 on April 22, 2026. She was born July 1, 1927 in Detroit, Michigan to Oscar and Elizabeth Couturier. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Charles “Chuck” Hayes; her brother Donald (“Betty”) Couturier; and her son in-law, Thomas Foell.

Together, Ruth and Chuck built a strong and loving family, raising six children: Margaret Hayes (Brian Burns), Marianne Foell, Sharon (Jerry) Badyna, Denise (Dan) Devine, Thomas (Belinda) Hayes and William (Cheryl) Hayes. Ruth was a proud grandmother to 11 grandchildren: Allison (Drew) Snider, Ryan (Jenn) Foell, Matthew (Liz) Badyna, Laura Treft, Leigh Badyna, Megan (Ben) Lavian, Kyle (Haley) Devine, Jennifer (Kody) Strong, Erin (Jack) Hostetler, Nicholas (Lisette) Hayes, Shannon (Kyle) Fluker, and a devoted great-grandmother to nine great-grandchildren: Nathan, Benjamin, Zachary, Brysen, Connor, Leo, Oliver, Charlie Ann, and Brody. Ruth is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Ruth was a devout Catholic whose spirituality guided her daily life. During her 19 years at Fox Run in Novi, she became a cornerstone of the community, leading Rosary Rallies and inspiring others through her quiet strength and devotion. She was also an enthusiastic participant in various crafting groups and especially enjoyed quilting, knitting and crocheting.

Before settling at Fox Run, Ruth and Chuck made their home in Rochester, Michigan. Once their children were grown, Ruth, along with three friends from St. Andrew Parish, opened The Olive Branch Christian bookstore in downtown Rochester. Ruth and Chuck also enjoyed many happy winters together in Arizona. No matter where she lived, Ruth’s greatest joy was bringing her family together. She treasured time spent at family gatherings, where her warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in others made everyone feel welcomed and loved.

Ruth will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her deep love of family, and her ability to make each person in her life feel special. She leaves behind a family who will carry forward her values and her spirit.

She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be held at O’Brien Sullivan Funeral Home in Novi on Monday, April 27, from 4-8 PM with a prayer service and sharing of memories at 7 PM. The funeral mass will be held at Church of the Holy Family in Novi on Tuesday, April 28 at 10:30 AM, with in-state beginning at 10 AM. Ruth will be interred at Great Lakes National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ruth’s memory to Capuchin Soup Kitchen or Angela Hospice.