Pedro Hayes, age 71, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on December 7, 2025. A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at True Bible Baptist Church in Des Moines from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by his Homegoing Celebration at 12:00 p.m. He will be laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Born in Iowa City on June 3, 1954, Pedro was the son of Roosevelt Roby and Van Esther Hayes. He was raised in Waterloo, by his great-aunt Vera Epps where he developed a strong foundation of faith at his church. At the age of 17, he moved to Des Moines, where he completed his education at North High School, graduating in 1972. After school, Pedro worked in construction until he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served aboard an aircraft carrier during the Vietnam Conflict and was a talented flutist in the Navy Band. Following his honorable service, Pedro returned to Iowa and pursued further education at the University of Iowa. He held various positions in the banking sector in Des Moines until his retirement in 2017. Pedro married Theresa "Tessie" Harris, and together they raised their daughter in a loving home. He attended church in Waterloo and occasionally visited Corinthian Baptist Church in Des Moines. Pedro cherished time spent with family, enjoyed music, and built close bonds with his grandchildren and cousins. He is survived by his beloved wife, Tessie Duncan; his daughter, Tanya Duncan; his beloved great-niece and goddaughter Seandrea "NaNa" Buchanan; grandchildren Jonathan "Dollar Bill" Duncan and Kianna "Baby G" Washington; and great-grandchild Kasean "Pocket Change" Duncan. He also leaves behind his goddaughter DaNasia "Peachy" Banks; special nephew Carnell "Chet" Hayes; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Pedro was preceded in death by his parents, great-aunt Vera Epps, and siblings Roosevelt Roby Jr., Henry Roby, Jesse Hayes, Mona Hayes, Tina Mayberry, step-father Donald Mayberry, and step-mother Amanda Roby. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Hendersons Funeral & Cremation Care has been entrusted with the arrangements and the care of Pedro and his family.