Marie-Reine Alexina (Audette) Hayes

May 17, 1946 – March 23, 2026

Marie-Reine Alexina Hayes, age 79, of Derby, Vermont, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026. She was born on May 17, 1946, in Val d'Amour, New Brunswick, Canada, to the late Edgar Audet and Émérentienne (Robichaud) Audet.

As a young woman, Marie immigrated to the United States, settling in Marlborough, Massachusetts. It was there that she met Kenneth Hayes, the love of her life. They were married on August 27, 1972, and shared more than 54 devoted years together. Throughout their life, Marie lovingly followed Ken as his work took them to different places, building a home and community wherever they went.

A devout Catholic, Marie's faith was the cornerstone of her life. Her church was deeply important to her, guiding her values, her compassion for others, and her unwavering dedication to family and community.

Marie dedicated her life not only to her family, but also to helping others. She worked as an accountant and, with a generous and compassionate heart, served as a full-time foster care mother, opening her home to youth in need of love, stability, and a safe place to belong. Her impact on the lives she touched will never be forgotten.

Marie had a deep love for family and connection. She and Ken took great joy in organizing family reunions for both the Hayes and Audet families, as well as many great friends, bringing loved ones together and creating lasting memories across generations. Her warmth, dedication, and commitment to family will be remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her children: Debra Caputo and her husband Garrett; Brenda Hayes; Billey Hayes; and Ken Hayes and his wife Kate. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Micah, Hannah, Gabrielle, Josiah, Eythan, Joelle, Cameron, Dane, Wyatt, Jaden, and Spencer; and 22 great-grandchildren who brought her immense pride and joy.

Marie is also survived by her siblings: Richard Audet and his wife Martina; Jacinthe Oakley and her husband Bruce; Luce Audet; and Anne Audet. She is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her siblings: Jean-Marie Audette (Mary Lou), Gabriel Audette (Carol), Jeanne Paulin (Ben), and Gilberte Jones (Vincent).

Marie found great happiness in the simple beauty of life, especially in her love of flower gardening. She created many beautiful gardens over the years, each one a reflection of her care, patience, and eye for beauty—just as she nurtured those around her.

Marie's life was defined by faith, love, service, and the strong bonds she nurtured within her family and community. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A viewing will be held on April 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at the Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport, followed by a Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Theresa's Church in Orleans, Vermont.

A burial service will take place on May 9 at 1:00 p.m. in North Kirby. Online condolences are welcomed at curtis-britch.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home & Cremation Service, locally family owned and operated.