Hayward E. Murray, age 80, of Dagsboro, DE passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Monday, October 21, 2024 in the comfort of his own home.

Hayward was born in Clarksville, DE on August 15, 1944 son of the late Earis Hayward Murray and the late Seatta (Brandner) Murray.  He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and also served in the Delaware National Guard.

Hayward was a hardworking man that provided for his family through his carpentry skills.  He was a fiercely independent man that enjoyed taking his nightly "deer runs".  Above all else, he loved his large family and being a Poppop was a role he loved to fill.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sheryl A. Murray; three siblings, George Murray, Eva Bunting and Fred Murray.  Hayward is survived by his eight children, Allan Murray (Christy) of Livermore, KY, Donnie Murray (Heidi) of Utica, KY, Diane Reader of Utica, KY, Karen Miller (Chris) of Calhoun, KY, Scott Murray (Rhonda) of Dagsboro, DE , Kevin Murray (Lourie) of Dagsboro, DE, Heather Mustian (Ryan) of Askewville, NC and Jessica Murray of Dagsboro, DE; 19 grandchildren, Savannah, Lucas, Jacob, Jordan, Mathew, Sam, Hannah, Jackson, Ethan, Olivia, Thomas, Abi, Caleb, Mallory, Katelyn, Brianna, Gavin, Ava and Allie and 5 great grandchildren, Emelia, Montgomery, Cole, Mary Catherine and Lauren Kate.  Hayward is also survived by his four siblings, Janice Collins, Steven Murray (Marybeth), Linda White (Ray) and Frank Murray; a brother-in-law, Dean Bunting and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 12 noon on Friday, October 25, 2024 at the Frankford Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher St., Frankford, DE 19945, where friends and family may gather after 11 AM.  Interment will follow at Dagsboro Redmen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made in Hayward's name to the Tunnell Cancer Center, c/o Beebe Medical Foundation, 902 Savannah Rd., Lewes, DE 19958 or by visiting

https://www.beebehealthcareorg/beebe-medical-foundation/donate