Lois Farquharson Hayes

Lois Irene Farquharson Hayes, a resident of Asheville, NC, died at home on Wednesday October 3 due to congestive heart failure.

She was born and raised in Buffalo, NY, where she attended the Park School prior to earning a Bachelor’s degree in Plant Science at Mount Holyoke College. She earned a Ph.D. in Botany at Indiana University, then became an Assistant Professor of Botany and Bacteriology at Franklin College. After taking an around-the-world trip with her best friend, she met her husband, the late Charles Marshall Hayes, an aviator. Upon marriage, they moved to the south suburbs of Chicago where they lived for four decades.

While raising her children, Lois developed a deep interest in nutrition and organic gardening. As the nest emptied, Lois returned to graduate school and earned a Master’s degree in Library Science at Rosary College, then worked as a medical librarian at the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine. After retirement, she enjoyed many years living with her son and his family in New Jersey and, more recently, with her daughter in North Carolina. Lois was wise, kind, giving to others, and had a delightful sense of humor that impressed all who had the good fortune of being in her life. To honor her, plant a tree, dig a garden, or enjoy a walk in the woods.

She is survived by her daughter Alison of Asheville, NC, son Stuart and grandchild Kalani of the Bronx, NY.