Isaac Matthew Hayes

Isaac Matthew Hayes passed away unexpectedly on April 15, 2026 at the young age of 21 due to a training accident at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. Isaac was born in Topeka, Kansas on March 1st, 2005 to Darryl Scott Hayes Jr. and Allison Marie Hayes (Phillips). He is lovingly known by his family nickname, Zizzle.

Isaac is survived by his mother Allison, older sisters Maddison and Dylann, and older brother Darryl the 3rd. Along with his caring girlfriend Jayla Clark and countless friends and extended family that will miss him dearly. Isaac was preceded in death by his father Darryl Jr. in April 2023.

Isaac graduated from Oskaloosa High School in 2023, where he was a member of the football, golf, track, and wrestling teams, as well as mixed choir. He enjoyed taking art courses, especially getting on the pottery wheel, and physical fi tness classes. During high school, Isaac participated in Jefferson County 4-H for several years, where he competed in archery, BB shooting, and earned a ribbon for his artwork at the 4-H fair. He always loved to compete and be a part of a team.

After graduation, Isaac took a gap year not knowing what he wanted to do until in fall 2024. He was recruited in the U.S. Army. He officially enlisted and started basic training February 10th, 2025. Graduated basic at Ft. Benning, Georgia on April 25th, 2025, then graduated Advanced Individual Training for Infantry at Ft. Benning, Georgia on July 25th, 2025. He was stationed at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky shortly after. Serving with the 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, as a rifl eman in Bulldog Company.

Isaac was a kind and witty guy. Wherever he went, he made friends quickly. He had the most contagious laugh that will be missed forever. He was generous and believed deeply in taking care of the people he loved. Isaac had a way of making others feel included, whether through a joke, a conversation, or simply showing up when someone needed him. He loved spending time with family and friends, listening to music, being outside in any weather, playing video games, and making people laugh. He was a huge anime fan, especially of shows like Avatar: the Last Airbender, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Naruto. He loved reading the manga that went along with his favorite shows and collecting Pokémon cards.

Those who knew him will remember his sense of humor, his loyalty, and the light he brought into every room. Though his life was far too short, Isaac lived it fully and left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved by his family, friends, fellow soldiers, and all whose lives he touched.