On June 18, 2019, listening to the trumpet of Jesus, and having heard the voice of a supernatural singer, Pastor Gene Hayden, surrounded by his family, moved on up to a better land and is numbered amongst that great cloud of witnesses! After all, isn’t that what he taught us the past 30 years? We don’t die; we throw off our earth suits and fly away home to Jesus!
Brother Gene, born in East St. Louis, Illinois, on April 20, 1929, to the late Joe and Alma Hayden, is well known for his singing and trumpet playing in the Gene Hayden Capital combo at Pete’s Supper Club, The Eagles Country Club, Rolling Hills Country Club, and hundreds of private events. He also worked at Whirlpool for 20 years and upon retirement, started his own business, Homes by Hayden. But, Brother Gene is most importantly known for his teaching, service, and love poured out upon the people of the local and surrounding communities through radio, TV, and public forums. In 1978, with his beloved wife Wanda of 58 years, standing by his side founded the Life in Abundance Full Gospel Christian Ministries-the first of its kind in this area. Throughout the 43 years of their ministry, hundreds have been delivered, healed, and set free.
Pastor Gene is preceded in going home by his beloved wife, Wanda McMurtry Hayden; older brother, Lindle Hayden; and sisters, Betty Lawson and Norma Hall.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 11 years, Dorothy Hayden; brothers James and Edmund Hayden; sister, Geneva Scheller; nieces and nephews. Carrying his ministerial legacy forward are his three children, Tari Martin (Mike), Tanya Elliot, and Tracy Hayden (Tasha); 12 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; also surviving are step-children, Dave Fitzsimmons (Becky), Donna Clark (Bobby), Rhonda Watson (Tim); 3 step-grandchildren; 6 step-great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday June 24, 2019 at Alexander East Chapel with Rev. Charles Schaad officiating. Following the funeral, lunch will be served at Life in Abundance Church, followed by a memorial service. Friends may visit 1-5 p.m. on Sunday and 10 a.m. until service time on Monday at the funeral home.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice Care, 2532 Waterbridge Way, Evansville, IN 47710.
Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.
As Pastor Gene always said, “Go in power to love and serve the Lord!”
