Lily Arlene Hayden & Ronald R. Hayden Sr. ~ Carbondale April 11, 2025

In Loving Memory of Lily Arlene Hayden & Ronald R. Hayden Sr.

Together in Life, Together in Rest

Lily Arlene Hayden, 84, and her beloved husband Ronald R. Hayden Sr., 93, both of Carbondale, Illinois, passed away just days apart—Lily on April 11, 2025, and Ronald on April 14, 2025—in Marion, Illinois, surrounded by their loving family.

Lily was born on April 2, 1941, in Carbondale, the daughter of the late Lindsey and Beaulah (Ferguson) Sanders. Ronald was born on September 18, 1931, in Duluth, Minnesota, to the late Raymond J. and Ella L. (Christianson) Hayden.

Lily and Ronald were united in marriage in January of 1999 in Las Vegas, Nevada, and shared over 26 beautiful years together. Their marriage was rooted in love, respect, and a deep devotion to each other and their family. Their bond was unwavering, and their time on earth was filled with laughter, shared memories, and a love that inspired everyone around them.

Lily is remembered as a warm and loving mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her children: Melody Hall (Steven Daugherty), Belinda Hall, Kimberly Hall (Robert Atamian), and Jerrod “Blake” Hall; and Heather Dorey, mother of her grandchildren: Alexis and Jerad Wayburn, and Kaitlynn Dorey; Aunt Mary Lou Sanders. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Sonny Sanders, Lowanda Cheatham, Shelby Winfield, Suzy Soprano, Linda Hawkins, and her first husband, Jerry Hall.

Ronald is survived by his stepchildren: Melody Hall (Steven Daugherty), Belinda Hall, Kimberly Hall (Robert Atamian), Jerrod “Blake” Hall; and Heather Dorey, mother of his step grandchildren: Alexis and Jerad Wayburn, and Kaitlynn Dorey. He is also survived by his children: Ronald Jr. (Donna Hayden), Johnnie Hayden, and Kathleen Lispina; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Lily; his first wife, Valerie Ann “Samponi” Hayden; and his siblings.

Ronald and Lily cherished their family above all. They found great joy in holidays, family gatherings, and simply being in each other’s presence. Their love was a true partnership—steadfast, nurturing, and a light to all who knew them.
Graveside services will be held at a later date.

Walker Funeral Home of Carbondale is entrusted with arrangements.