Norris A Hayford

Norris Atherly Hayford, Jr. went home to his heavenly father on December 31, 2024. He was born on October 21, 1933, in Mount Vernon, New York, to Norris and Grace Hayford. His family moved to Dobbs Ferry, New York, and he graduated from Dobbs Ferry High School and attended Westminster College. He met his wife of 60 years, Barbara (Lindsey) Hayford, in the church choir and youth fellowship and they married on June 13, 1955. Barbara joined Norris while he was stationed in the Army at Fort Knox, Kentucky. When he completed his service, they moved to Florida so Norris could attend Florida Southern College on the GI Bill where he earned a BA in Education, beginning his lifelong career as an educator. He later earned an MA in Education from Columbia University. He taught at Griffin and Combee Elementary Schools, was principal at Crystal Lake Elementary School, and then worked with students and teachers in the Chapter 1 Program. He retired after 42 years with the Polk County School system.

Norris was a member of First United Methodist Church of Lakeland for 68 years, where he served in many different capacities. For many years he was a Sunday School teacher and instilled the love of Jesus and family in his children and students.

Together Norris and Barbara raised five children: Karen (Steve Smittle), David (Patti Hayford), Donald (Julie Hayford), Anne (William Altman), and Linda (Jim Phelps). His children enjoyed many family camping trips with cousins traveling throughout the US. Norris liked to fish, golf, and attend high school and college football games. He was an avid Gator fan!

Norris is survived by his sister Susan McCracken (Walter), five children, nine grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. His family will hold a private memorial service to honor him at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Good Shepherd Hospice in his memory. They provided extraordinary home care in his last days.