Joseph Neal Hayden, Jr., died on Tuesday, September 6, 2016, at his home in Solomons, Maryland, with his family at his side.

Joe was born on November 11, 1932, in Pearson, Maryland; his parents were J. Neal and Alice Armsworthy Hayden. He had one sister, Mary Tennison, who predeceased him. He attended Little Flower School and graduated from Great Mills High School in 1950, and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1953.

In 1956 he married Joan Frances Stone of California, Maryland. They began their married life in Seat Pleasant, and moved to Clinton in 1963. They raised five sons, and were blessed with many friends. Joe was an active member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, volunteering with multiple ministries and assisting with youth sports.

Joe worked for PEPCO and C & P Telephone, Co. for many years, retiring as a systems technician in 1990. In retirement, Joe and Joan moved to Huntingtown, and became founding parishioners at Jesus the Divine Word parish. Joe was active in the Altar Guild, the Parish Council and the Holy Sweepers. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #14775. He also volunteered with Meals on Wheels. Joe was a shining example of quiet service, inspiring his children and grandchildren to live faithfully and to serve others.

Joe led a happy and rich life, full of friends and family. He is survived by his wife, Joan, and five sons and daughters-in-law: Don and Donna of Hampton, Virginia; Mark and Phyllis of Severna Park; Jeff and Patti of Ellicott City; Brian and Kelly of Lusby; and Randy and Kathy of Gambrills. His survivors also include sixteen grandchildren and their spouses, and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his large extended family and his numerous friends.

Joe loved his wife and his family, and had a deep, enduring faith. You can honor his memory by hugging your loved ones, saying a prayer, and performing some act of charity for another person. We will forever miss Joe, our Dad, our Granddaddy and Granjoe.