Jackson Jovanni Hayden entered into rest on June 4, 2013. He enjoyed swimming, puzzles, playing on his iPad, the Backyardigans, and being tickled. Despite his serious medical problems, he was always happy and smiling. He may have only been 4 years old, but he touched the lives of so many, including over 500 local strangers who showed up to the St. Leo Bone Marrow Drive in his honor. His family is comforted, knowing that his experience will help to save the lives of others. He is preceded in death by his great grandfather, Bernard Liff and great grandmother, Pearlie Coley. Survivors include his loving parents, Erick Hayden and Molly Liff; sisters, Jacey and Alana Hayden; grandparents, Ricki Liff, Sharon and Roger Hayden; great grandmother, Betty Liff; and a large extended family. A celebration of life service will be held 12 PM Sunday, June 9 at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, Brandon. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jackson’s honor to dkmsamericas.org or toy donations to the Child Life Program at All Children’s Hospital, St. Petersburg. Jackson will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but he will live on in their hearts and memories.
