Mrs. Theresa Hayes Halley

Theresa Hayes Halley passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. She was born in 1950 in Thomaston, Georgia, where she graduated from R.E. Lee High School in 1968. After graduating from West Georgia University, she taught science at R.E. Lee Junior High School. While earning her Masters of Education degree at the University of Georgia, Theresa met and married Thomas Halley, to whom she was married for forty-five years. After teaching math and social studies in Oglethorpe County, Theresa taught English in Greenville, SC, where she was chosen as Teacher-of-the-Year in 1979. Theresa was a school Guidance Counselor in Charlotte, then after a brief time in Maryland, Theresa and Tom moved to Salisbury, North Carolina where Theresa applied her teaching skills in the English Department at Catawba College.

Theresa was a life-long learner and bibliophile who shared her love of books with many friends, students, and family members. Theresa also enjoyed calligraphy, needlework, watercolor painting, gardening, walking; and at times, tennis and golf. She had a special connection with nature and animals, particularly her Cavalier Spaniel.

Theresa volunteered in churches in each place she lived, including serving alongside her husband through the outreach ministries of First United Methodist Church of Griffin. Whether in a church, in a classroom, or in the community, Theresa embodied the love of God by thoughtfully listening to others. She applied her keene gifts of observation, reflection, synthesis, and gentle encouragement to help others along the way.

Theresa was preceded in death by her parents, Theron and Dorothy Hayes, and by her husband, Thomas Halley.

She is survived by her sister, Sue Fallin (Durwood), and her brother, Mark Hayes (Nancy); by her beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; by beloved cousins, and by many beloved life-long friends. The family would like to thank the compassionate caregivers at Kauhale Pettigru, HomeWell, and Agape Care; thank you for walking this journey with Theresa and with us.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM, on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at South View Cemetery in Thomaston.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Agape Care South Carolina, 3 Independence Pt Unit 105, Greenville, SC 29615.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is honored to serve the Halley family. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.