Laurence Hayward Obituary

Laurence Hayward

Royalton, VT - Laurence Hayward, 84, of Eustis, Florida (formerly of Royalton, Vermont), passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, after a brief illness, surrounded by his beloved family.

Born in East Corinth, Vermont on March 30, 1941, Laurence was a proud Vermonter with a deep love of nature and animals, his country, and old Vermont traditions such as sugaring and hunting. Most of all, Laurence loved his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn (Benson) Hayward, with whom he recently celebrated 60 years of marriage. Together they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Laurence honorably served in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1963, including service during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following his military service, he began a 35-year career at General Electric in Rutland, Vermont. After retiring, he found joy in staying active and connected to his community through part-time work at the local Ace Hardware in Florida and Welch's True Value Hardware in Vermont, where he became the go-to expert on home repairs. Known for his constant humor, disarming nature, extensive knowledge of all things hardware, and the dog treats he always had on hand, Laurence was a beloved figure among customers - human and canine alike.

One of his most cherished "retirement jobs" was helping to maintain the Tunbridge Fairgrounds, working alongside fellow retirees whose strong work ethic and camaraderie matched his own. He found great joy in keeping the fairgrounds in top shape and being part of a community tradition he loved.

Laurence and Marilyn made their home in Royalton, where they raised their two daughters, Terry Dohrn (husband, Mark) of Eustis, Florida, and Donna Hayward of Glastonbury, Connecticut. Laurence also leaves behind five grandchildren - Christopher, Sarah, Elizabeth, Emily, and Katie and three great-grandchildren - Landon, Sienna, and Freya, each of whom brought him immeasurable pride and joy.

In 2023, Laurence and Marilyn made Eustis, Florida their permanent home. He was quick with a joke, had a mischievous love of practical jokes, and possessed a warm, unassuming nature that instantly put others at ease.

Above all, Laurence was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was his greatest joy and his most cherished legacy. His deep faith brought him comfort and peace, especially in his final days, and he took solace in the belief that his family will one day be reunited in Heaven.

Laurence's life was one of humor, devotion to family, and strength - in work, character, and conviction. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the honor to know him.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, August 24th at 1pm in the Pavilion on Tunbridge Fairgrounds with burial immediately to follow. All friends and family are welcome. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lucy Mackenzie Humane Society (PO Box 702, Brownsville, VT 05037).

Arrangements are under the direction of Boardway and Cilley Funeral Home in Chelsea. A private message of sympathy for the family can be shared at www.boardwayandcilley.com.