MADISON – Jeraldine M. Hayden known to many as “Jerry” passed away Feb. 26, 2023, at her home of 72 years with family by her side.

Born July 30, 1924, in Castle Hill, Maine to Jason E. O’Donol and Eva (Campbell) O’Donol, she spent her childhood in Aroostook County. At 11 years old, her mother passed, and she moved to Athens to live with her grandparents. As a teenager, she moved to Anson. She worked for Beaver Wood Products in North Anson, then at the Madison Woolen Mill.

On March 25, 1951, she married the “love of her life” and the “wind beneath her wings”, Walter H. Hayden. They raised four children, Leslie, Wanda, Shannon, and Scott.

She was a member of the Madison Congregational Church, the Ladies Firemen’s Auxiliary, and the Minerva Chapter of the Eastern Star No. 74. She was a hard worker, involved with all family or organization projects. Whether in cooking or building a house.

She called herself an “outdoor girl”, enjoying her beautiful gardens, tending the birds, or a visit to the ocean. She was always up for an adventure, and never missed the chance to dance. She could truly “cut a rug”.

She is survived by Leslie (wife Cherylon) of Stratton, Wanda of Mercer, and Scott (fiancé Debbie Batnich) of Farmington; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; her brother Leland Brown of Bangor; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by husband Walter (2003); son Shannon (1998); grandson Brook (2022); her parents; and five siblings.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 27 from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Euclid Masonic Lodge, at 194 Maxim Street, Madison.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, 83 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville. An online guestbook can be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.aablecremationservice.com.

Donations may be

made to the:

Minerva Chapter of the Eastern Star No. 74

194 Maxim St.

Madison, ME 04950

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