Mr. Gerald Donald Haywood, 80, of Hartwell, Georgia, died on Thursday, August 4, 2016. Jerry is survived by his wife, Connie Haywood, his daughter, Denise Haywood McWhorter and her husband Thad, step daughters, Mandy Boyd Porterfield, Carla Boyd Daniel and step son, Alan Boyd and his wife Lynn, twelve grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. His youngest daughter, Susan Carol Haywood, preceded him in death earlier this year.
Jerry, son of Earl and Doris Haywood, was born on June 16, 1936 in Tifton, Georgia. He attended ABAC College and graduated from Georgia Southern with degree in Physical Education. He went on to complete both his Masters and Doctorate in Administration and Supervision from the University of Georgia. Jerry was also aU. S. Army veteran.His years in education began and ended in Clarke County Schools where he became a lead administrator and opened Cedar Shoals High school as its first principal. During the 1960s, he refereed on the premier Northeast Georgia High School Football officiating team with George Bullock, John Story, Billy Sailors and Billy Hearn. Jerry had a passion for his family and love for working with children.Jerry was happiest living on and enjoying lake life.
Jerry's wishes were to be cremated and the family plans to have a memorial service to celebrate his life at a later date.
The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.