Richard "Dick" W. Hayward, 79, Woodbury, CT, died Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011, at River Glen Health Care Center, Southbury. Dick was a native son of the area, born in Waterbury Hospital to G. Arthur and Mary (Dennison) Hayward, and raised in Watertown. In 1950, Dick graduated from Watertown High School as valedictorian.
Dick worked as an independent financial planner and insurance agent for over 40 years, where he helped clients create retirement plans. He prided himself on his service to the community during 40 years with the Woodbury Volunteer Fire Department, serving in many active and advisory positions, including commissioner.
Embracing the advances of computers, the craft of woodworking, drawing, sailing, fishing and other pastimes, Dick pursued many passions. Dick loved singing, serving as a member of various choral societies, including the Connecticut Choral Society, St. John's Chorale, and was a devout member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Sitting on a different bench, he was an avid fan of the UConn Huskies and Boston Red Sox. He enjoyed both photography and nature, endeavoring later in life to combine the two in an ambitious four-season photography project cataloguing the delights of the Greater Pomperaug River Watershed.
However, first and foremost Dick will be remembered for his love of his family in whom he took great pride.
Dick is pre-deceased by a sister Nina Lockhart, a brother Robert Hayward, brother G. Arthur Hayward, and ex-wife Mildred (Makl) Hayward. He is survived by longtime companion Katharine Nichols, Woodbury; son Mark Hayward, Watertown; daughter Polly Miller, Watertown; daughter Kirsten Stone, Woodbury; daughter Elisabeth Mute, Berlin; son Ian Hayward, Danbury, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. In addition, he is survived by his blended family, including Katharine Nichols' two children, daughter Ashley Erickson, Southbury; son Houk Nichols, Roxbury, and three grandchildren.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 and the Woodbury Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 561 Woodbury 06798.

Cemetery: Cemetery Not Applicable

Location: Munson-Lovetere Woodbury

Funeral: St. Paul's Episcopal Church of Woodbury

Services: A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Woodbury, on Friday, April 29, 10 a.m. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Visitation: There will be no calling hours.