Nicole Dawn (Gillenwater) Hayes 44, beloved daughter, sister, mother, and friend to all passed unexpectedly Thursday, June 15, 2023.

She leaves behind her two children, Madyson Vail Hayes and Kaiden Bethel Hayes of Ripley, WV; husband, Torren Avery Hayes of Ripley, WV; parents, Jill and Timothy Tidd of Millwood, WV; brother Shane Gillenwater of Millwood, WV; grandmother Betty Tidd of Ravenswood, WV; Aunt Patty McCoy of Ravenswood, WV; as well as many cousins, relatives, and countless friends. She was preceded in death by her father Bethel Gillenwater Jr.; Grandparents Ruth and Bethel Gillenwater Sr. of Ravenwood, WV; and Virginia Colleen Sandridge of Millwood, WV.

Nikki graduated from Ravenswood High School in 1996 where she enjoyed being part of the Red Devils Varsity Cheerleading Squad and running for the Red Devil Track Team. Her nurturing nature led her to take courses in the field of nursing, where she obtained her CNA licensure. Nikki was a member of the Saint John's Episcopal Church in Ripley, WV and attended the Independent United Brethren Church in Ravenswood, WV while growing up, where she proudly sang for the congregation.

Her fighting spirit, fierce love, and tender concern for those around her will be dearly missed.

Service will be 1 p.m., Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at Casto Funeral Home, Ravenswood, WV, with Pastor Mark Price officiating. Burial will follow at Ravenswood Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the service on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.castofuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the care of Casto Funeral Home, Ravenswood, WV.