James Dallas Hayden, 60, of Martinsville, left this life unexpectedly on Sunday, August 7, 2022, as the result of a tragic car accident in Kokomo. James was born in Martinsville on October 14, 1961, to the late Willard and Grace (Frederick) Hayden. He attended Assembly of God Christian Academy in Mooresville with the class of 1979. He worked as a diesel mechanic for Oliver Trucking retiring in 2005. He married the love of his life, Rebecca Ann Schwert, on May 24, 1986. Rebecca and he were nearly inseparable as he never wanted to do anything without her by his side. James loved Jesus, was a man of great faith, and enjoyed reading his Bible. He was a member of the Abounding Grace Worship Center in Martinsville where he was a song leader. He was previously an associate pastor of Mt. Olive Country Chapel where he also was a song leader. He was an avid golfer, an incredible singer, a talented guitarist, a patient fisherman, and a great cook. Most importantly, he loved his family but especially his grandchildren. To say he adored his grandchildren would be an understatement! He enjoyed cooking for his family and was often attempting new recipes. Several of their favorites include his biscuits and gravy and pancakes. Additionally, he enjoyed watching Old Westerns, Andy Griffith, Leave it to Beaver, and more. James leaves behind a host of loving family and friends who will remember him forever including his wife, Becky Hayden of Martinsville; sons, James (wife, Lindsay) Hayden II of Camby and Justin Hayden of Martinsville; bonus sons, Michael Pottorff of Paragon and Christopher Hester of Bargersville; brothers, Willard (wife, Carla) Hayden of Patricksburg, Charles Hayden of Monrovia, Joe (wife, Nann) Hayden of Monrovia, Roger (wife, Debbie) Hayden of Monrovia, David (wife, Jaquie) Hayden of Martinsville, Kenny (wife, Cecilia) Hayden of Mooresville, John Hayden of Patricksburg, and Bruce (wife, Debbie) Hayden of Martinsville; sisters, Delores Akard of Martinsville and Robin (husband, Scott) Curry of Martinsville; grandchildren, Jaxan, Jordyn, and Jayce Hayden; and many cousins and other family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Grace; sister-in-law, Dee Hayden; brother-in-law, Ed Akard; nephews, Willard Akard and John Hayden; niece Allison Hayden; aunt, Debbie Ferguson; and two baby “J” Hayden grandchildren. Family and friends are invited to visit on Saturday, August 20, 2022, from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm at Abounding Grace Worship Center, 1795 Centerton Road, Martinsville. A service celebrating his life will immediately follow beginning at 2:00 pm at the church. James’s earthly remains have been cremated. Everyone is invited to a dinner and gathering immediately following the services at the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Neal & Summers Funeral and Cremation Center in Martinsville. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in James’s memory to the KCs Cause, 5648 Olive Branch Road, Greenwood, IN 46143. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.nealandsummers.com.