James R.S. Hayden

Jim was born to Laurie and Larry Hayden in New York City and raised in Brooklyn. He graduated from Poly Prep in 1972, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete—playing football, running track, and serving as captain of the basketball team. He continued his education at Dickinson College, graduating in 1976 as a proud member of Phi Kappa Sigma, an enthusiastic beer drinker, and an avid rugby player,

After college, Jim returned to Brooklyn to pursue his passion as a singer/songwriter. In 1977, he took a bartending position at the Waterfront Café in Brooklyn Heights, where he met Kathie, the café's owner. Their love story began then and there, leading to their marriage in March 1980. Jim lovingly adopted Kathie's son Jamal shortly thereafter.

In 1979, before proposing, Jim joined Schoenberg Salt Co. in Red Hook, Brooklyn,as an entry-level employee. Through dedication and hard work, he worked his way up the ladder to General Manager in the early 1990s, then President, and ultimately co-owner before his retirement in 2022.

Before her passing in June of 2024, he and Kathie enjoyed a wonderful life together in East Hampton for 30+ years, which included many Thursday rounds of golf at Poxabogue Golf course, followed by early dinners and plenty of wine at Cyrill's.

Those fortunate enough to know Jim will forever remember his infectious smile, booming laughter, and genuinely warm personality that drew people to him wherever he went.

He is survived by his loving and devoted son, Jamal.