James Robert “Jim” Hayhurst, age 66, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026.
Born on October 5, 1959, Jim attended Perrysburg schools and briefly served in the United States Navy.
Jim chose to be a father. Though not biologically related, he stepped into that role fully—caring for Misty and her brother, Noah, as his own children. He remained a constant presence in their lives, offering guidance, structure, and unwavering support.
Meeting Jim was like finding a lighthouse in a stormy sea. He was a steady, foundational presence—someone who could guide and light the way in the dark. Where there had once been chaos and fear, he brought structure, safety, and stability. He set rules, chores, homework, and bedtime—not just as discipline, but as a way of building a life that felt secure.
He will be remembered by many as kind, gentle, and quick-witted—always ready to laugh and share a joke. At the same time, he could be stern and strict, with a strong personality and a firm way of seeing the world. He was a complex man, both warm and unyielding, and deeply himself in every way.
Jim had a deep love for collecting, surrounding himself with things that sparked his interest—movies, music, coins, trains, comics, plates, cups, castles, and Disney. He especially loved DC Comics, often drawn to the lesser-known heroes like Green Arrow and The Flash.
He loved gardening, cars, books, and film, and could talk for hours about stories and characters. He also loved to cook and experiment with flavors—sometimes to everyone’s surprise, like when he decided orange Kool-Aid belonged in just about everything. He had a deep appreciation for bold flavors, especially spicy Asian and Mexican food, as well as rich, classic Italian dishes.
He shared his life with many pets over the years, and cats, in particular, seemed to love him just as much as he loved them.
Jim was diagnosed with dementia in May of 2024, though he had been quietly facing its effects for some time before it was formally recognized.
This was not how he would have chosen to be remembered. Instead, those who knew him will picture him as he truly was—sitting on his porch with his tobacco pipe, talking about movies or comics, playing dominoes with friends, laughing, teasing, and making his signature raunchy jokes.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and David Hayhurst, and his sister, Connie. He is survived by his brother, Tom, and by the children he chose and raised, Misty and Noah.
A memorial service will be held on Friday April 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at Dunn Funeral Home, located in the Historical District of Bowling Green at 408 W. Wooster St. Visitation will be held on Friday at the funeral home from 4:00 p.m. until the time of his service at 5:00 p.m.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Grand Rapids Care Center, where Jim lived for the past year and a half and was cared for like family. Their compassion, kindness, and dedication made a difficult time feel warm and supported, and their presence meant more than words can express.
The family also wishes to thank the hospice team who cared for Jim in his final weeks with comfort and dignity—and who kindly indulged him in some of his favorite simple joys: Doritos, Mountain Dew, and rock music.
In lieu of flowers, Jim would want people to take a moment to share stories of him, hug a loved one, and sit quietly to enjoy the sun and the flowers.
Though he is gone, the light he gave continues to guide those he loved.
