Mr. James Milton Hayden – affectionately known as "Moose" – was born August 21, 1937, to the late Lovie Hayden in Nebo.  He departed this earthly life for his eternal reward on Wednesday December 6, 2023, at Magnolia Lane Nursing and Rehabilitation.  Moose was educated in the Burke County School System, graduating from Olive Hill High School.  He was a life-long member of Willow Tree A.M.E. church where he served on the Steward Board, Trustee Board, Church Treasurer, and Men's Club.  He was a member of Prince Hall Masons at Queen of the West Lodge #70, Shriner at Gizeh Temple #162, and former member of the Blue Ridge Elk's Lodge.  He was employed with SGL Carbon for 35 years, retiring in 1999 as a crane operator.  Following his retirement, he ran a lawn care business for many years.  He was united in holy matrimony to Mrs. Vanessa Avery Hayden.  In his spare time, Moose enjoyed fishing, swimming, water skiing, traveling, and dancing.  In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by a brother Leroy Hayden, daughter Geneane Mason, aunt Leola Wilkerson, and grandson Javon Young.

Left to mourn his loss but cherish his precious memories is his wife Vanessa Hayden of the home; children Tyler Hayden (Kendra) of Morganton, Tammy Berry of Charlotte, NC, Patrina Clark of Baltimore, MD, Andrea Brown of Asheville, NC; sister Laura Jamerson (Charles) of Shelby; grandchildren Sebastian Hayden, Kingston Michaux, Carlos Young, Nichelle Grandy, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A homegoing celebration will be held Tuesday December 12, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Willow Tree A.M.E. Church; interment will follow in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

The service will be livestreamed on the McCain Funeral Home & Cremations Facebook page and YouTube Channel; the links are found below:

McCain Funeral Home & Cremations Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/mccainfuneralhome/

McCain Funeral Home & Cremations YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu4qb7IT7sO-Kc0BRs05J-A