Marilyn Ann Hayward

Marilyn was born on November 4, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, to Charles and Reckina Thomas. A proud graduate of St. Cecilia High School in Detroit, Marilyn carried her strong faith, kindness, and dedication to family throughout her life.

She was the beloved wife of Edward Hayward for 60 wonderful years. Loving mother of Reckina (Keith) Gretkierewicz and Mark Hayward. Cherished grandmother of Nicholas Gretkierewicz, Dr. Sabrina Gretkierewicz, PhD, Melanie Gretkierewicz, Rosie (Randy) Zilinski, and Sebastian Hayward. Marilyn was preceded in death by her brother, Charles Garrett Thomas.

She is also survived by her dear sister-in-law Caroline Pribble who was her best friend for 71 years, cherished nieces and nephews: Charles Michael Thomas, Pam Thomas, Jennifer (Mark) Holody, Jim Lewis, and Angel Lesko, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss her deeply.

Marilyn began her career with Michigan Bell as a telephone operator and, through hard work and determination, advanced to become an instructor. She retired at the young age of 45 so she could devote herself to caring for her grandchildren a role that quickly became the greatest joy of her life.

Known affectionately as “The Cake Lady,” Marilyn was famous for her beautiful wedding cakes and her generous spirit. She loved baking for others and often personally delivered cakes to those who needed them. Her creativity, warmth, and thoughtfulness touched countless lives.

A devout Catholic, Marilyn spent much of her time at Divine Child, where she found comfort and peace in prayer. Whenever she came into town, she made a point to stop and light a candle.

Above all else, Marilyn loved her family. She treasured traveling with her grandchildren, taking yearly trips to Florida, and creating memories that will be cherished forever. To her grandchildren, she was simply “Grandma” a title she wore with immense pride and endless love.

Marilyn will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her generous heart, her delicious cakes, and the deep love she poured into her family. Her legacy of kindness, devotion, and love will live on in all who knew her.

A visitation will be held at Harry J Will Funeral Home-Redford on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 from 4-8pm with a Rosary service at 7pm. A funeral mass will be held at Divine Child Catholic Church on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 10am (in state 9:30am). Marilyn will be laid to rest at Christian Memorial Gardens.