James Edward Hayden, 92 of Bedford, VA went to be with the Lord on August 17, 2023 at his residence.  He was born on July 31, 1931 to the late Leonard J. Hayden and Lucy Quarles Hayden.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Louise Ross Hayden, daughter Marion L. Hayden; his sister, Ethel Hayden; brothers, William Hayden, Charlie Hayden, David Hayden, and Albert Hayden; son-in-law, William "Red" Bonds.

James loved to fish, hunt, work in his garden, and flower beds.  He was one of the best butchers in Bedford County; he retired from Gunnoe's Sauage Company.

James was a long-time faithful member of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, where he was on the senior choir years ago, ushered and loved to beautify the church yard.  He served until his health begin to decline.

Those left to cherish his many memories are his children, Fannie Martin (and friend Winslow) of Charlottesville, VA; Jacquelyn Bonds of Bedford, VA, and Eleanor (Robert) Kasey of Greenville, NC; two grandchildren, Jennifer (Jerry Sr.) Thompson of Bedford, VA and James (Monica) Kasey Sr. of Fairfield, CA; ten great-grandchildren, Jerry Thompson, Jr. of Roanoke, VA, Aliyah Kasey of Newport News, VA, James Kasey, Jr. of Vallejo, CA, Jerica Thompson of Richmond, VA, Nathaniel Kasey of Vallejo, CA, Azara Kasey of Los Angeles, CA, Kaleiah and Elon Kasey both of Benicia, CA, Keela and Christian Kasey both of Fairfield, CA; two great-great grandchildren, Emily Powell of Newport News, VA  and Jaziah Thompson of Roanoke, VA; one step grandson in love, Jayden Babbel-Carrol of Fairfield, CA; two aunts, Elizabeth Nelms and Margaret White; one sister-in-law, Maxine Ross; three special people, Albert Nelms, John Newbill, and Timothy Hayden; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

HE'LL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED

He'll always be remembered as a man, both strong and good.

Who gave his best for others and who did the best he could.

He'll always be remembered for all the joy he brought.

As a man who made a difference and a man who meant a lot.