Bennie Hayden

Bennie K. Hayden, 94, of Danville, Va. passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 27, 2014, at Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Mr. Hayden was born in Danville, Va. on January 9, 1920, son of Mary Caroline Pruitt Hayden and Charles Lewis Hayden. He graduated from George Washington High School. After joining the National Guard (246th Coast Artillery) in 1937 he was called into active duty in 1940 and went to OCS in 1942. He served in Alaska for 3 years during World War 2. He rejoined the Virginia National Guard (560th field artillery) and then served 2 years active duty in the Korean War, stationed in Japan. He retired from the National Guard in 1973, attaining 33 years military service, earning the rank of Colonel. He was President of J.W. Squire Co, Inc. until his retirement in 1989. Bennie spent his life in Danville, where he was dedicated to his community. He served on the American National Bank Board of Directors, and was Past President of the German Club and the Young Men's Club. For 25 years he was Chairman of the Industrial Development Authority. He was past Director of the United Way and the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce and served on the Zoning Board of Appeals. Bennie received the Liberty Bell Award from the Danville Bar Association in 1992. He was a charter member of American Legion Post 325. Bennie was also an avid golfer, member and Past President of the Danville Golf Club, and active member of Ascension Lutheran Church. He was preceded in death by his parents and 3 brothers, Otwa Hayden, Charles Hayden, and Joseph Hayden; and 4 sisters, Elizabeth Buckner, Grace Chaney, Zona Cabiness and Virginia Carter. Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Helen S. Hayden of the residence; son Robert G. Hayden and wife, Jan of Portland, OR; daughters, Elizabeth H. Hayden of Atlanta, GA, and Laura H. Keistler and husband, Gregg of Clover, SC; and grandchildren Benjamin R. Hayden, Caroline E. Hayden, Sarah M. Keistler, and Anna K. Keistler. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2014, 2:00 pm at Ascension Lutheran Church with Pastor Meredith Williams officiating. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service at the church and other times at the home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Ascension Lutheran Church, the Danville Life Saving Crew, or a charity of your choice. Townes Funeral Home and Crematory, 215 West Main Street, is serving the Hayden family.