Washington Twp. Land Trust President Succumbs to Brain Tumor

Keith Hayes, 52, of Long Valley, NJ passed away on April 20, 2011 at Morristown Memorial Hospital.

Ask Keith if he had traveled the world and he would say yes. Ask him what his favorite place was and he would say, home or “up at camp.”

A strong and positive person, who was often described as a gentle, artistic, focused and talented, He knew and loved everything about plants, had a wicked sense of humor, and perfect hair. His idea of relaxation would be pruning his fruit trees or building car stopping snow sculptures or cutting trails at Mill Pond Park.

Keith was born on February 21, 1959 in Hicksville, NY to the late William and Jean Hayes. His bond and love for his family was strong and he will be sorely missed by his brothers Bill and Glenn Hayes; his sister Lisa Hayes; his sister-in-law Sharon Hayes; his Aunt Kathleen and “Aunt” Elsie, both of whom held a special place in his heart, as well as his cousins, nieces and nephews.

After graduating from SUNY- Cobleskill and then the Rhode Island School of Design, he moved to Cedar Lake in Denville, NJ, with his partner. When they left, what became life long friends, and moved to Long Valley, he quickly became an involved member of the Long Valley community. Serving as President of the Washington Township Land Trust, he was committed and successful, with others just as dedicated, in preserving open space and the ongoing restoration of the Obadiah LaTourette Grist Mill. Keith placed a high value on preserving the history and architectural integrity of the community and served as a member of the Washington Township Historical Commission.

Prior to his career as an Office Manager for Trius Pest Management, where he knew every client off the top of his head and will be missed on a daily basis, Keith was a woven stylist in the home furnishing industry.  It became very commonplace to hear him say “Oh, that’s my fabric.” One of his first jobs after graduating was with Elizabeth Eakins in New York City. His weaving skills executed her rug design that was installed in Gracie Mansion’s Dinning room. 

The outpouring of support and caring over the past few months has been overwhelming and gratefully appreciated.  He will be missed by many but most of all by his loving partner of 28 years, Jim Fitterer and his dog, Tillie.

There will be a celebration of Keith held on Saturday, May 21, 2011 at the Mill Pond Park in Long Valley. Additional information will be posted on their website, www.wtlt.org. Interment will be private. Memorial donations may be made to Washington Township Land Trust of Morris County, Inc., PO Box 4, Long Valley, NJ  07853.  For more information and online condolences visit www.williamjleberfh.com