Ellen Dodd Hayes, 69, of Melbourne, Florida, passed away on February 8, 2026. She was born on August 6, 1956, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late Carolyn Duley Dodd and W. Stanley Dodd, Jr. Ellen grew up in Miami, Florida, and on June 14, 1980, she married the love of her life, Thomas McNeill Hayes. She was a proud graduate of the University of Georgia, Class of 1979.

Ellen had a generous, open heart and poured herself into caring for her three children, volunteering in their schools and being deeply involved in their lives. In 2001, her love for animals led her to rescue two horses in need of a home—an act that marked the beginning of The Pony Express. Over the years, Ellen rescued dozens of ponies and other animals, giving them love, care, and a second chance. Through lessons, camps, and birthday parties, she shared that joy with countless children throughout the community.

Ellen is survived by her husband of 45 years, Thomas Hayes; her daughter and son-in-law, Heather and Casey Connor; her beloved grandchildren, Clayton and Rhone Connor; her son, Christopher Hayes; her daughter, Shannon Hayes; her brother and his partner, Warren Dodd and Susan Weaver; and her brother, sister-in-law, and niece, Philip, Mary, and Sarah Dodd.

A celebration of Ellen’s life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at The Pony Express.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ellen’s memory to support The Pony Express at https://gofund.me/6adf15287