Elder Ro'Nique Hayes Staley was born on May 5, 1984, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to Alicia Laney Irwin and Robert Hayes Staley. He was educated in the Spartanburg County School System and was a proud graduate of Spartanburg High School. Continuing his pursuit of excellence, he attended Clemson University, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. While at Clemson, he was a beloved member and one of the directors of the Clemson University Gospel Choir.

Ro'Nique lived for music. It was not just his passion but his calling. His gift flowed through every song he sang and every note he played. He served faithfully for many years as a Minister of Music and was currently serving at Faith Tabernacle Baptist Church. His love for teaching extended to private lessons, where he instructed students in piano, cello, and voice, imparting both skill and inspiration.

He was known for his infectious laugh, humble spirit, and genuine heart. Though immensely talented, he walked in humility, using his gifts to uplift others and glorify God. Ro'Nique had a special anointing for exhortation, and his words often stirred hearts and strengthened faith. Following in his grandfather's footsteps, he became a true kingdom builder, sharing his voice and message of hope through radio ministry in Forest City, North Carolina.

He was a devoted son, a loving brother, and a steadfast example of godliness. His life was marked by positivity, service, and sincerity. Ordained as an Elder through International Bible Way, Ro'Nique served the body of Christ with excellence. He was revelatory in his preaching and powerful in his teaching, an effective communicator of the gospel who inspired many to grow deeper in faith. Throughout his life, he was connected with numerous gospel groups and ministries across the region, always willing to lend his time, voice, or instrument wherever there was a need.

He was preceded in death by his aunts, Stephanie Pepps and Sandra Staley, and by his uncle, Johnathan Staley.

Elder Ro'Nique leaves a legacy of love, faith in God, and cherished memories to his parents, Alicia Laney (Craig) Irwin of Inman, South Carolina, and Robert Hayes Staley; brother, Carlin Irwin of Inman, South Carolina; aunts, Donna Bates of Moore, South Carolina, Deann Avery of Forest City, North Carolina, Deborah Lowrance of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and Terri (Stevie) Palmer of Rutherfordton, North Carolina; uncles, David Staley of Rutherford, North Carolina, Robert (Susan) Luney of Forest City, North Carolina, and Alan (Kia) Laney of Shelby, North Carolina; his beloved fur baby, Denver; and a host of other relatives, members of the music community, and friends.

Elder Ro'Nique Hayes Staley transitioned at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital after a diligent fight. He will be remembered for his musical brilliance, his servant's heart, and his unwavering commitment to God. His legacy will continue to echo in every life he touched, every song he sang, and every soul he inspired.