James "Jim" Donald Hayden

James Donald Hayden-

Lolo- On June 30, 2025 Jim (78) was called home into the arms of Jesus after a 26-year battle with cancer. 

 

Born on November 13, 1946, in East St Louis, Illinois to Joseph and Dorothy “Lucille” Hayden.    As a child he enjoyed being with his grandparents on the family farm in Paducah, Kentucky.  The family relocated to Anaheim, California where he attended Loara Highschool and was involved in cross country and running track.   Later, Jim enlisted to serve in the US Army in February 1967.  Months later, he voluntarily deployed to Vietnam where he completed 2 tours.  Serving as ground infantry, sharpshooter and a wheeled vehicle mechanic.  He survived the Tet-offensive, the deadliest day in Vietnam.

 

In June 1970, Jim met the love of his life, Linda, while at their friend’s wedding.  Later they would marry, June 23, 1973.  They welcomed their first child in 1976.  Soon after, they moved to Montana where they have been for the last 46 years.  They welcomed 2 daughters.  The two had just celebrated 52 years together.

Jim had many interests and hobbies. In his early years he was a California surfer boy, and enjoyed taking his Bultaco dirt bike out to the Death Valley desert. He had a love for the Montana mountains and outdoors. Jim was an avid fisherman, hunter and loved target shooting where he found much joy in teaching his kids to be sharp shooters like him.  Taking the kids Crystal digging in the hills was always a fun trip.

 

Jim was very proud to have served his country during such an unpopular war.  He was a loving father and always bragged about his children.

 

Jim is proceeded in death by his parents and brother, Tom.  He is survived by his wife, Linda Hayden of Lolo, Son, Jim (Shannon) Hayden of Missoula, daughters, Jami (Bryan) Bezdicek of Lolo, Janiece (Chance) Watson of Gillette, Wyoming, and sister Linda Jo (Leonard) Grill of Perris, California. Along with grandchildren: Hunter, Grace, Madisyn, Garrett, Jaylin, Briella, and Lane.

 

Full military services will be held at the Missoula Veterans Cemetery located at 1911 Tower St. Missoula, MT. on October 3, 2025 at 1pm.  A celebration of life will follow at 5012 Excalibur Way, Lolo MT.