Obituary of Lee Stanley Hayward

In Loving Memory  Of  Lee  Stanley  Hayward

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lee Stanley Hayward, who departed from this world on June 8, 2025 at the age of 74, just shy of his 75^th birthday. 

Lee Stanley Hayward was born in Morristown, NJ to Leroy Stanley and Marjorie Hayward (nee Jefferds) on June 27, 1950. He was raised in Morristown and  graduated from Morristown High School  in 1968. After a brief time at Emporia State University in Kansas, he decided to enlist in the US Army in 1971. He revered the time he spent in Alaska as Military Police. Once discharged from the Army, he was a man of many talents and eventually found the most joy in jobs that allowed him to build and repair things. He lived in NJ, then Texas, and then back to NJ before heading to his last home in Ocala, Florida. He retired from his position with Facilities Management for Marion County Florida several years ago. He enjoyed so many things in life-such as model airplanes, many of which hung from the living room ceiling, collecting cars and motorcycles, travelling the United States, and just loved working with his hands. He was a long-time member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics and several RC Airplane Clubs. He even built a model train platform in his living room with a historical motorcycle parked underneath that not only entertained him, but the grandkids for hours! 

Lee was a devoted father, grandfather, spouse, and friend. Family and  “framily” were at the center of his world. He is survived by his wife of almost 36 years, Sarah Hayward (nee Stromberg), Daughters Melissa Warta (sp. Matthew Warta), Rebecca Jozefik (sp. Artur Jozefik), and Kaylee Hayward. He is also survived by five grandchildren-Andrew Warta, Lillian Warta, Jonathan Warta, Liam Jozefik, and Landon Jozefik.  He is survived by his sister Jill Wujciak (sp. Richard Wujciak), his niece Michelle Peters (sp. Keith Peters) and her family, as well as extended family.  His love for motorcycles, corny jokes, model airplanes and trains, and the gift of gab brought joy to many—all just the tip of the iceberg and testament to his vibrant spirit. 

Lee touched the lives of friends, family, neighbors, and all who knew him. He leaves us with a reminder to live fully, love deeply, and cherish each moment. While Lee’s absence will be deeply felt, his light will continue to shine through the lives he touched and all the memories created. His memory will carry on through his family and friends.

The wake for Lee Hayward will be held at Dangler Funeral Home on June 18^th, 2025 from 4-7 PM. Friends and loved ones are invited to gather, honor his memory, and share stories of the profound impact he made.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to either St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project. Lee and his family have always been long supporters of St. Jude’s and its mission to cure childhood cancer. Lee was so proud to have served his country and to support his fellow veterans.

Rest in peace, Lee Stanley Hayward. You will forever be in our hearts.