Jesse Hayward, Sr. was born to the late Jacob and Mrs.Mazzrine Hall Hayward on January 4, 1946 in Jacksonville, Florida. He was educated in the local public schools of Duval County, where he attended Matthew W. Gilbert Junior-Senior High School. However, in 1966, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he completed highschool and served his country until being Honorably Discharged.

Furthering his education, Mr. Hayward earned the bachelor's degree in business at Jones College of Jacksonville. While at Jones College, he was inducted into Who's Who for earning ALL A'S for the entire four years at Jones College.

Early in his life, Mr. Hayward accepted Christ and at the time of his demise was a member of Triumph Church and Kingdom of God In Christ, under the pastorate of Elder Andrew Williams.

In 1969, he was united in holy matrimony to the former Miss Doris Gene Lewis and together they reared four children.

Mr. Hayward was an Underground and Overground Lineman employed by Jacksonville Electric Authority, until retiring after rendering thirty years of dedicated service.

Jesse Hayward, Sr. transitioned and departed this life on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife. Mrs. Doris Lewis Hayward. Survivors include his children, Ms. Angela L. Hayward, Jesse Hayward, Jr. (Yvonne), Michael J. Hayward and Ms. Susan A. Hayward; grandson, Zachia A. Hayward; sister, Ms. Martha Hayward; brother-in-law, Joseph Lewis; a number of other siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.