He was the son of the late Frank S. Hayden and Lillian K. Hayden and was born in Rockingham County on July 31, 1924.
James was a WWII veteran who served in Italy. Locally, he belonged to Rion Bowman VFW. He was employed by Fairmont Foods and retired from Shenandoah Pride.
He married Crystal H. Cumbie on April 21, 1944, who survives.
He is also survived by one daughter, Anna H. Steele of Harrisonburg; two granddaughters, Wendi J. Steele of Richmond and Traci H. Steele of Bisbee, AZ.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
The family wishes to express deep gratitude to the compassionate caregivers of the last year and a half as well as First Choice Hospice.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests that contributions be made to Open Doors, P.O. Box 1804, Harrisonburg, VA 22803 or visiting their website www.valleyopendoors.org.
Lindsey Funeral Home in Harrisonburg is handling arrangements and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.lindseyharrisonburg.com.
