WESTBROOK - Helen "Bernie" Bernadette Hayes, 83, of Westbrook, Maine, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born in Medford, Massachusetts, on July 16, 1942, Bernie was the daughter of the late Helen and John Barry. She met the love of her life, Wally Hayes, on a blind date, and they married soon after in 1966. Together they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure, raising two children, Ryan and Kathleen, and later welcoming a granddaughter, Kyla.

Bernie spent many years at L.L.Bean, where she served in leadership roles within the company's call centers. She was admired for her intelligence, strong work ethic, and the way she led with both humor and heart.

Outside of work, Bernie found joy in the natural beauty of Maine and beyond. She loved hiking, kayaking, and spending quiet days at the family camp on Moosehead Lake — her favorite place in the world. She also loved exploring the coastline of Grand Manan in Canada and searching for sand dollars every summer at Popham Beach. She shared that love of nature with her family, teaching them to appreciate its peace and wonder.

Bernie is predeceased by her beloved husband, Wally Hayes; her brother, John Barry; and her sister, Geraldine Wynne. She is survived by her son, Ryan Hayes; daughter, Kathleen Hayes, and her husband, Jonathan Everdyke; granddaughter, Kyla Hayes; sister, Mary Steinhagen, and her husband, Paul; sister-in-law, Cherie Barry; brother-in-law, Ray Wynne; and her many cousins in Charlestown, Massachusetts, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In keeping with Bernie's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. A private family gathering will be held on Moosehead Lake to celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the National Kidney Foundation.