Rosemary Hayes

Rosemary “Rosie” Edson Hayes, 79, passed away peacefully, with family by her side on January 2, 2026.

Born in Springfield, Tennessee, on December 20, 1946, to Gilliam Edson and Margaret Lee. Raised by her mother and Stepfather, Harold Lee, Rosie grew up as one of five children and attended Hillwood High School. She raised her family and built her life in Nashville as a hard worker, devoted mother, cherished grandmother and loyal friend. As a huge fan of George Strait, she found great joy in his music and adored her companion toy poodles.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gilliam Edson, Margaret Lee, her stepfather, Harold E. Lee, sister Patricia Givens and son Billy Butler. She is survived by her sisters LouAnne Newsome and Elaine Melnek, brother Harold W. “Butch” Lee (Ellen), loving son Jonathan “JJ” Hayes (Cathi) and many cherished grand and great grand-children.

A celebration of life will be held on January 16, 2026, at Harpeth Hills Memorial Gardens Pavilion from 2:00pm until 5:00pm. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests donations be made in Rosemary’s name to the Nashville Humane Society.