Vernon Russell Hayden

Russ Hayden, Jr., aged 82, of Shawnee, KS, passed away on June 26, 2026. Born on January 9, 1944, to Virginia and Vernon Hayden, Russ grew up in Warren, Ohio, and later attended Howland High School and Youngstown State University. On October 7, 1985, he married Elizabeth Carbone in Bel Air, Maryland.

Russ began his career at Packard Electric and subsequently had a distinguished career at General Motors, where he retired as Chief Powerhouse Engineer. In retirement, he dedicated his time to community volunteering, particularly at the Overland Park Arboretum, contributing significantly to the cherished train garden.

Preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law Tammy Hayden.

Russ is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Elizabeth; his children, Porcia Baldwin (husband Stan) of Whiteford, MD, Vaughan Hayden of Salisbury, MD, and Vikki Nicholas (husband Troy) of Knoxville, TN; as well as eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Leslie Wilkinson (husband Pat) of Courtland, Ohio, and nephew Andrew Wilkinson of Columbus, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to TBD. Services will be held at a later date, following cremation.