Rodney Charles Hayden

Rodney was born on August 16, 1954, in Pekin, Illinois, to Helen Francis Sargent and Charles Norman Hayden.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Norman Hayden; his late wife, Kathleen Marie Deal (Hayden); and his lifelong best friend, Russell “Red” Pullman.

Rodney leaves behind his children and grandchildren, whom he loved dearly: Dawn (Andrew) Brazee and their children Devontae and Cherish of Benson, Illinois; Derrick Hayden and his children Madison, Jaylynn, Elijah, Liam, Tyler, and Zachary of Loami, Illinois;

Brittney Tribble (Dalton Baumann) and sons Jaxston Tribble, Caleb Tribble, and Kyler Baumann of Willisburg, Kentucky;

and Amanda Carter (Seth Rice) and their daughters Braylee and Hadlee of Hutchinson, Minnesota.

He is also survived by his siblings: three sisters — Janie (Kenneth) Mayberry of Pekin, Illinois, and their children Kent, Scott (Denise), and Todd (Keri Ann) Mayberry, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Connie Hayden of Pekin, Illinois, and her sons Robert and Ryan Hoopingarner; Tina (Kenny Joe) Gregory of Green Valley, Illinois, and their children Renae and Brock Gregory. One brother — Tony (Teressa) Hayden of Bellevue, Nebraska, and their daughters Amy (Justin) Dudgeon and Ashley (John) Milota.

Rodney had a deep passion for fishing and camping, a love he proudly passed down to his children and grandchildren. He was well known for his exceptional skills and knowledge of all things automotive, including repairs, restorations, rebuilds, and unique paint jobs. His love for classic cars was unmistakable, especially his favorite 1970 green Chevelle, 1964 blue Chevelle, and his 427 Impala.

Rodney’s loud, contagious laugh, kind heart, and ever-present smile will be deeply missed. He loved to talk—especially about cars—and his warmth and friendliness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Cremation has been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. A Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring, honoring Rodney in a way he would have loved, with a cookout and camping shared among family and friends.

Online condolences may be shared with Rodney's family at www.Preston-Hanley.com