Gerald J. “Jerry” Hayden, age 91, of Platteville, WI, completed his earthly journey on January 7, 2026, at Sienna Crest Assisted Living in Platteville.  To honor Jerry’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jerry’s family.

Jerry was born on October 25, 1934, in Platteville, WI, a son to Guerdon and Maybel (Langkamp) Hayden.  He was gifted with a people friendly personality and the natural ability to fix anything you placed in front of him.  He met the love of his life, Joyce McPherson, when they were young.  It was a love that was truly destined from above and they were eventually united in marriage years later.  They were inseparable as the decades passed and life revealed its plan for them until Joyce was sadly called home ahead of him a few years ago.  Jerry’s heart would never mend this deep wound and there is truly peace to be found today as their time apart has ceased and their eternal life together now begins.

Jerry was a proud member of the Wisconsin National Guard in his younger years and went on to spend the majority of his working career as a truck driver for H&W Motor Express for over 30 years.  He put on countless miles before finally retiring in 1993.  Being the type of guy who could make friends anywhere he stood, Jerry always had a good conversation waiting for him as he reached each destination the days travels brought.

Jerry was also instinctively mechanically inclined and never met a project or repair that he couldn’t conquer.  Do it yourself was definitely the mode of operation he spent his life in and endless projects, upgrades, repairs and improvements around the house were faced head-on and no need to call in help when Jerry was in charge.  He was generous with his skills as well and many folks benefited from his time and talents over the years.  We are going to miss Jerry moving forward, but are forever grateful for the time the Lord was kind enough to share him with us.  May peace be yours now Jerry as your earthly health battles are nothing more than a faint memory and the beautiful smile of your Joyce is standing directly in front of you once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jerry include,

his loving daughter,
Jill (Jon Quilici) Hayden, Cuba City, WI;

along with extended family, friends and neighbors.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beautiful bride of 65 years, Joyce Hayden; his sister, Joyce Heins; and his sister-in-law, Betty (Ken) O’Connor.

Jerry’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Sienna Crest and Agrace Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Jerry’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com