Janet Key Hayden

Janet is survived by her beloved husband of 61 years, Paul S. Hayden, her children, Paul S. Hayden, Jr. (Barbara), and Laura P. Hayden; grandchildren Holly (Jake Farris), Matthew, and Emily Hayden. She leaves behind her sister, Pat Carr, brothers, David (Sue Anne) Key, and Billy (Susan) Key, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Emily Dyer Key, and brother Robert (Bob) Early Key.

Janet was born in Roanoke, Virginia, and grew up in Birmingham, Alabama, where she attended Shades Valley High School and met the love of her life, Paul S. Hayden. She graduated from Samford University in Birmingham, and was a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. She taught high school English and History in Smith Station, Alabama, while Paul finished college at Auburn. Janet and Paul moved to Florence, Alabama, and Janet taught high school in Sheffield, Alabama, until Paul, Jr. was born. Two and a half years later, Laura joined the family. The Haydens moved to Clearwater, Florida, in 1970. In 1976, the Hayden Family moved twice. First, to Atlanta, Georgia, then to Richmond, Virginia, where they have remained. The family enjoyed boating, swimming, hiking, water-skiing and snow-skiing. Janet and Paul loved to scuba-dive, play tennis, and travel with family and friends. They have visited many National Parks, six continents, and fifty-four countries around the world, from China to Iceland, Russia to Tahiti, New Zealand, Japan, Egypt, Australia, and Western European countries. She loved her country, her life, her family, and friends.

Janet and Paul had the most wonderful marriage. They spent every minute possible by each other's side. They had made vows to love, respect, and cherish each other, and honored those vows. Janet and Paul made decisions together. They had the same ethics, morals, and values, which they instilled in their children. Their goals, dreams, and thoughts on life were a perfect match. They loved each other, and their family, immensely. Being both a student and teacher of history and world traveller, Janet had a profound appreciation of America's value and generosity to the rest of the world.

Janet served as President of the Panhellenic Association of Pinellas County, Florida, and as President of an Investment Club in Richmond, Virginia. She volunteered extensively and was a member of many organizations throughout her life, including both Tuckahoe and Dunlora Women's Clubs in Richmond. Janet was also a skilled photographer and won awards for her pictures.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 2:00 pm at The Parham Road Chapel of Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Road, Richmond, VA 23229.