James Haydon

James Lee Haydon, 79, passed away August 9, 2012 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.



Jim was born July 29, 1933 in Hannibal, MO to the late James R. and Gladys Haydon. He graduated from Hannibal High School. He attended junior college at Le Tourneau Technical Institute in Longview, TX and was accepted to General Motors Institute in Flint, MI, earning a degree in Business Administration. He was a member of Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity.



After serving in the U.S. Air Force and completing GMI's fifth year thesis program, he started his career with General Motors in the Chevrolet and Cadillac divisions. He retired from General Motors in 1987.



Jim is survived by his wife of 48 years, Joyce Isham Haydon; Sons O. Phillip and  wife Nicole Glasrud Haydon of Shelby; Michael Haydon and wife Kimberly Withers Haydon of Tampa, FL; Brother Jerry and wife Judy Haydon of Shelbyville, MO; Grandchildren Alexandra and Abigail Haydon; Niece Cynthia Haydon and her son, Hunter.



Jim was a member of The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Shelby, NC. He leaves behind many wonderful, dedicated friends in that congregation who were steadfast in their tremendous fellowship and love for him. He also leaves behind numerous friends and fellow co-workers across the country. Their companionship and memories enriched his life to the end.



A memorial service in Jim's honor will be held a The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer at 510 W. Sumter St. in Shelby, NC at 1:30 on Saturday, August 11, 2012. A reception will follow the service.



In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Wendover, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC 28150.



C;eveland Funeral Services & Crematory is serving the family.