Thomas Michael Hayward

Thomas Michael Hayward, 64, of Broken Arrow, passed away in the morning hours of Sunday, October 29, 2017, with his wife at his side. He was born on November 12, 1952 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Norma Lea (Barclay) and Louis C. Hayward. He grew up in Tulsa and graduated from Memorial High School, Class of ’71. He attended Oklahoma State University, studied animal science to become a veterinarian. After two years, he transferred and graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration: Accountancy.

Tom married the love of his life, Robina Kay Palmer on July 20, 1974 at First Christian Church of Tulsa, Oklahoma. They have two daughters, Kristin and Diana. He was an amazing father; he coached their soccer teams, became president of the Bixby Soccer Club and was even a registered Girl Scout. His love for animals was passed down to his daughter’s; they were always rescuing homeless animals.

Tom broke his back while playing soccer in a men’s league, and suffered through many surgeries. Despite his disability, he always kept a positive attitude and He will be remembered for always doing the right thing, and trying to make the world a better place. Tom never met a stranger; he made friends everywhere he went. He was a very giving, trusting and honest man, a true man of his word. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norma Lea (Barclay) and Louis C. Hayward; nephew and godson, Eric Michael Hayward; loyal canine companion, Maya.

Survivors include his loving wife, Robina "Ruby" Hayward of the home; daughters, Kristin Dillard and Jason of Broken Arrow, OK and Diana Brown and husband, Joshua of Las Vegas, NV; grandchildren, Rachel Renee Dillard, Leigha Marie Dillard and Mason Andrew Brown; brother, Bill Hayward and wife, Nancy of Broken Arrow, OK; nephew, Ryan C. Hayward and wife, Sarah of Oklahoma City, OK, niece-in-law, Theresa Hayward of Fort Smith, AR; great niece, Laura and great nephews, Ian, Alec, and Callen; many other family and friends. He will be greatly missed.

Family Viewing will be held 5 PM to 7 PM on Wednesday, November 1st at Schaudt's Tulsa Funeral Service & Cremation Care in Tulsa, OK. Funeral Service will be held 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 2nd at Forest Park Christian Church, 9102 S. Mingo Rd. Tulsa, OK with Reverend Bill Hemm and Reverend Dr William Smith officiating. Memorial donations can be made In Memory of Thomas Hayward to Melanoma Research Foundation at www.melanoma.org. Arrangements are entrusted to Schaudt's Tulsa Funeral Service. Family and friends may send memories and condolences to the family, online at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com.