Fred served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Valley Forge (CV-45). He later built a career as a Warehouse Manager with Vertner Smith Company/Commonwealth Wine and Spirits, retiring after 37 years of service.
Fred truly knew how to enjoy retirement. He spent the last several decades pursuing the things he loved, including traveling with his wife, making wine and beer, fishing, caring for his lawn, and maintaining his beautiful backyard and koi pond. An avid fisherman, Fred was always happiest when he could spend time outdoors or cheering for the Ky Wildcats!
More than anything, Fred loved his family and the home they shared together. During the summer, his house was often filled with grandchildren, and Sunday night family dinners became a cherished tradition. His home was a gathering place, and he took great pride in having his family together.
Fred is survived by his wife of 60 years, Linda Hayden; his daughters, Beth Mylor (Rick), Lisa Hayden (Brock Simpson), Patti Jo Hayden, and Jan Meredith (Sean); his grandchildren, Kara (Tyler), Hannah (Sean), Sarah (Daniel), Thomas (August), Aaron, and April; seven great-grandchildren, and his beloved granddogs, Pippa and Penny. He is also survived by his sister, Peggy Browning.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Francis Leonard and Edith Mary Raley Hayden; seven sisters, Dorothy Medley, Betty Sue Hicks, Mary E. Yates, Ruth Miles, Frances L. “Fanny” Nalley, Joann Hamilton, and infant Della Hayden; and four brothers, Leslie, John, Bobby and infant George Donald Hayden.
Fred had a way of making people feel cared for. He will be remembered as a good neighbor, a kind friend, and a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and family member. His warmth and kindness touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.
Visitation will be held at Arch L. Heady and Son at Westport Village, 7410 Westport Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40222, on August 29, 2026, from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with the last hour being dedicated to Sharing of Memories.
A funeral Mass will take place at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 6785 Highway 52, Loretto, Kentucky 40037-8201, at 11:00 am on Monday, August 31, 2026, with burial to follow at the same location.
