Jerry Lee Hayden, 64, passed away on December 1 after several years of battling cancer.  Raised in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains by Lottie and Deward Hayden, who preceded him in death, Jerry’s love of nature began at a young age and never ceased as he was most content while outdoors.  He will best be remembered for his excitement as he watched storms gather or held lengthy conversations about aquatic life.  He also leaves behind a legacy of craftsmanship; able to construct most anything from wood, but particularly focusing on items to share his love of family such as planter boxes for his wife’s love of flowers and pool decks for his daughters to spend countless summer hours jumping off of into the backyard pool.

His joy of being near water led him to work for Huntington Ingalls Industries for nearly 40 years, a career which led to numerous journeys on sea trials and as many lifelong friends.

Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife, Kathy, of 40 years; daughters Jennifer (Joe Cunningham), Amanda (Chris) Setterholm, and Samantha Guthrie; grandchildren, Alex, Kyleigh, Jamie, Ryan, Genevieve, and Logan; sisters Peggy (Fred) Blevins and Janet (Charlie) Allen; and numerous extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Nature Conservancy.  Cremation Society of Virginia is handling arrangements and online condolences may be expressed to www.vacremationsociety.com.