Jean Hayward

Jean Ellen Hayward, age 75, of Wauseon, Ohio passed away peacefully due to ongoing medical issues, Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at CHP Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center in Defiance, Ohio.

She was born to the late Clarence and Irene (Bourn) Riegsecker on January 30, 1951. She married Dale E Hayward on May 22, 1971 and he preceded her in death on December 9, 2009.

Jean worked at Sheridan and McCord’s, before retiring from Sauder Woodworking. Jean enjoyed spending time with family. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy and she put them above all else. She loved her country and was an avid supporter of the Fulton County Special Olympics Jaguars. She could be seen at most practices and bowling events. She never met a stranger and could carry on long conversations with anyone. She valued friendships and kept in contact with people for years after meeting or working with them, attending monthly get togethers frequently, as her health allowed. She loved the church and her church family. She also enjoyed her time with her family’s pets, Loki, Evie, Hopper, Belle, Benny, and Luna.

She will be deeply missed by her children, Chad (Christine) Hayward of Wauseon, Ohio, and Terra Hayward of Archbold, Ohio. Sisters Sara Louise Strauss and Dianne Galbraith, both of Wauseon, Ohio. Sisters-in-law Sharon Riegsecker, Sharon (Harry Keller) Hayward, Bonnie Lopez, Connie (James) Baldwin. Grandchildren Damien (Amber) Hayward, Cale Meeker, Jadon (Olivia) Meeker, Dillon Hayward, Aslinn (Bronson) Baden, and Lorali Berry. Many nephews and nieces as well.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and son, Christopher Robert Hayward. Brothers Paul and Charles Riegsecker. Brothers-in-law Willaim Strauss, Sr., Daryl Hayward and Martin Lopez and Sister-in-law Janice Riegsecker.

Visitation for Jean will take place on Monday, March 2, 2026, from 3pm to 7pm, at the Crossroads Church Chapel. A funeral service for Jean will take place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 10am, at the church, with Pastor Matt Sauder officiating. Burial will follow at the Winameg Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Special Olympics in Jean’s memory. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. The Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home of Wauseon is honored to serve the Hayward family.

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