Eugene Hayden Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Type Obit Here HURST -- Eugene Leonard Hayden, 49, passed from this life after a battle with cancer Friday, Sept. 4, 2009 Funeral: Noon Friday, Sept. 11, in the chapel of Lucas Funeral Home, 1321 Precinct Line Road in Hurst, with the Rev. Jim Rigsby officiating. Interment: 2 p.m. Friday in Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery. Visitation: The family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Lucas Funeral Home. Memorials: Donations may be made in Eugene's name to the American Cancer Society. Eugene was born March 24, 1960, in Rhodesia, now known as Zimbabwe. He spent his early years in London and Ireland. At the age of 12, he moved to the United States and became a U.S. citizen. He felt it an honor to be able to call the United States his home. After graduation, Eugene proudly joined the Navy to serve his country. As an avionics technician, he was part of the Strike Fighter Squadron 11, known as the Red Rippers. He served for six years and traveled the world extensively on the USS Kennedy. After the Navy, Eugene worked as an avionics technician and logistics engineer with Bell Helicopter, TAC Worldwide and Global Contract Professionals for 24 years. Eugene had a passion for traveling and photography. He enjoyed music, art, movies and all things Irish. As a sports enthusiast, he enjoyed basketball and soccer, but his favorite was Notre Dame football. He also liked a weekend of camping and fishing. Eugene looked forward to the opportunities of worship and fellowship with his Bible study group from Christ Chapel. He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Hayden; stepfather, Ray Nickles; and uncle, Jim Hayden. Survivors: Mother, Rita Nickles; sister, Natasha Garvin and husband, Mack; dear cousin, Ciaran Hayden and wife, Kim; godsons, Lucas Hayden and Chris Knoerr; best friend, Klaus Strassmann and his family; extended family in Ireland and London; and a host of friends from church and work.

Eugene Hayden

March 24, 1960 - September 4, 2009