Philip Hayward

Philip Clair Hayward was born in Battle Creek, MI on July 13, 1959, to the late Clair Hayward and Lorraine Smith (Hayward) Drallette. He grew up on a farm in Fulton, attended Vicksburg High School (1978), and entered eternal life on February 11, 2025, at his childhood farm.

Philip lived much of his life to the tippy-top. He was an adventurous, friendly, neighborly friend who loved travel and adventures.

He spent the bulk of his adult life living in Colorado, Alaska, and McMurdo Station Antarctica, serving primarily in firefighting/first-responder roles in each of those places.

Phil was known for his deep love of family and his ability to form lasting friendships with ease. He loved pitching in and loved making others feel important. He is famous for wide-ranging escapades that he was either subject to (including once being kidnapped) or subjecting others to (especially long fast drives in his Jeep or by motorcycle).

He was thrilled to serve for many years as a part of the Patriot Guard, a group of non-profit motorcycle riders who sought to ensure dignity and respect at memorial services honoring Fallen Military Heroes, First Responders and honorably discharged Veterans.

Rarely was he seen without one of his many collies (many of them named ‘Jake’) by his side. He was a member of Gracespring Bible Church in Richland, where he not only attended (with Jake) but also spent countless hours mowing the grass.

He is survived by his mother Lorraine (DeWayne) Drallette; and three sisters: Rosemary (Dave) Goad of Climax, Diane Hills of Fulton, and Lynette (Garth) Piper of New Plymouth, New Zealand. He also leaves behind ten nephews and nieces and scads of great-nephews and nieces with special memories of their fun-loving uncle.

A memorial service will be held at Prairie Baptist Church in Scotts on February 22 at 11:00 a.m.

While visiting Phil’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home; 409 S. Main Street Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269-649-1697).