Reginald Joseph Hayward, Sr.

Born in Chicago, IL, in 1946, Reginald was the son of Samuel and Hattie Hayward and the eldest of their seven children. He served his country in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant — a chapter of his life marked by discipline and duty.

Following his military service, Reginald spent many years working as a car salesman. He was a man of his own convictions, and he carried himself with a self-reliance that those who knew him will recognize.

Reginald was a practicing Catholic. He had a longstanding interest in wind energy projects and followed developments in the field closely.

Reginald is survived by his son, Reginald Hayward, Jr.; his stepchildren, Cinnie, Terrance, and Kelley Thomas; his grandchildren, Israel, Samuel, Hannah, Josie, and TJ Hayward; and his siblings, Wayne Hayward, Leon Hayward, Patsy Carter, and Jessie Rashad. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Hattie Hayward.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 11:00 am until the time of the funeral service at 1:00 pm at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307. Burial to follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Reginald’s relationship with his son, Reginald Jr., was among the most meaningful of his life — a bond his son nurtured with patience, faithfulness, and an open heart over many years. That devotion did not go unnoticed, and it endures.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelLawnFunerals.com for the Hayward family.