Clayton Otto Hayes

Clayton Otto Hayes, age 28, of San Diego, California, originally from Illinois, passed on September 19th, 2025.

Everyone who knew Clay loved him for his remarkable personality. He was quick to share a laugh, was always thoughtful and cared deeply for those around him.

Clay adored his son Ocean, more than anything in the world, and the feeling was mutual. They were truly the best of friends. Clay often talked about Ocean’s future, imagining the day they would share their first hockey game together with Papa Hayes, and hoping Ocean would grow to love the sport as much as he did.

We will always admire Clay’s patience and calm demeanor, qualities that naturally drew people to him. He was a devoted father, husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Clayton is survived by his wife, Pamella Kovaleff Coppa; son Ocean Marley; his parents Kevin (Kristen) Hayes and Shauna Hayes; sisters Kalee (Alan) Johnstone, Kori (Bohlt) Hamrick, and Sydnie Hayes; nephew Lorenzo Johnstone; niece Hadlee Johnstone; and several uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Clayton is preceded in death by his daughter Autumn Lee Hayes; grandparents Lonny Walsh, Marsha Walsh, and Barbra Hayes; great-grandparents Clearance Hayes, Opal Dilley, and Virginia Evans.

A celebration of life will take place Wednesday September 24th, 2025 at 4:30 pm at Campland on the Bay in San Diego with an Illinois service to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations can be made to an account at Navy Federal in the name of Ocean Hayes.