James Robert 'JR' Hayes, talented artist, musician

James Robert (J.R.) Hayes, 39, of Lincoln, departed this life peacefully Friday, Jan. 2, 2015, due to complications of multiple sclerosis.

J.R. was born in Milford, June 28, 1975, and grew up in Lewes. He graduated in 2008 from Del Tech with an associate degree in office administration and paralegal.

J.R. developed an early interest in music and loved playing the guitar, and working with his brother at Rehoboth Beach Music. He always had a great sense of humor and was such a talented artist and musician. His favorite memory was his trip to California to the NAMM show in 1999.

He was preceded in death by his father, James H. Hayes; and his grandfather James R. Thompson. J.R. is survived by his grandmother, Mary J. Thompson; parents John and Toni Gallegan; two brothers, Ron Thompson and his wife Kara, and Joseph Gallegan and his wife Lisa; two sisters, Lena Warnke and Tracy Belll and six uncles, Shannon Thompson and his wife Linda, William Thompson and his wife Dawn, Harry Thompson and his wife Allanora, Mark Thompson and his wife Kathy, Steve Thompson and his wife Renee and James L. Thompson. He is also survived by his nephew and niece, Jack and Maya Thompson who were very special to him and always made him laugh; his best friend, Chris Kiker; as well as numerous other friends and family members.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 10, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro, where friends and family may gather at 2 p.m. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in J.R.'s name to the Easter Seals by visiting www.easterseals.com or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society by visiting www.nationalmssociety.org.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com