Gene E. Hayden, born on September 22, 1944, in McNair, Texas, to the late Lester Hayden of Baytown and Bertha Davis-Hayden of Wallisville, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2024, at the age of 79.  A beloved husband, father, and veteran, Gene dedicated his life to his family, his country, and his career.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Batty Hayden, and their three sons: Gene Jr. (Andrea), Gerome (Natissha), and Steven (Oneeka).  He was a pround grandfather to Johnell (Arissa), Terrell, Chris, Camrie, Jayshawn, Caela, Charles, Avante, and Mason, and a great-grandfather to Jayden, Janiyah, Kyrie, Ariyah, Alorah, Amya Queen, Jordynn, and Jahleel.  Gene also cherished his Godchildren, Jamia, Daniel and Jamaal.  His legacy of strength, kindness and commitment will live on through his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gene attended Harlem Elementary School in McNair, Texas, and graduated from George Washington Carver High School in 1962.  His passion for playing football and basketball led him to become a member of the 1961 football state championship team, and he was later inducted into the Prairie View Interscholastic League Hall of Fame.  Gene enrolled in Texas Southern University in the fall of 1962 and in 1965, he joined the United States Air Force and served from 1965 to 1970.  In 1966, he married the love of his life, Betty Jean Perry-Hayden, and together they shared 57 beautiful years o f marriage. Their enduring love and commitment to each other were evident in every aspect of their lives.  After his military service, he built a successful career at Lyondell Chemical Company, where he worked for 25 years until his retirement in 1999.

More than anything, he loved spending time with his family.  He also enjoyed watching old western movies and sports.  The Dallas Cowboys were his all-time favorite football team.

Gene is preceded in death by his brother, Lester Hayden (Isabel).  He is survived by his sister, Wilma Jackson, and his brothers and sisters-in-laws:  Mitchell (Iris), Brenda (Seth), Jo Ann, and Mary.  He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins that he loved and cared for dearly.

His legacy of love and devotion will be carried forward by his family and friends, who will always remember his wonderfull smile and his unwavering love, kindness, strength, and commitment to those he held dear.  He will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.

Gene was a member of Mt.Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Baytown, Texas, under Pastor Ralphael Montgomery.