Peggy "Jean" Haywood

Mrs. Peggy Jean Haywood, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, nurse, and friend, passed away on February 15, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on December 7, 1939, to Clarence and Elvie Brown, Jean's early years were spent in the warm embrace of the southern states of Alabama, South Georgia, and Florida, where she developed a lifelong love for playing cards and board games.

Jean's nurturing spirit led her to a fulfilling career in nursing, where she dedicated her life to caring for others with compassion and grace. Her unwavering commitment to healing and comforting those in need left an indelible mark on the many lives she touched.

Jean was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Clarence and Elvie Brown, her devoted husband, Gene Haywood, and her dear brother, Charles Brown. Her legacy of love and laughter lives on through her surviving family members: her children, Ronnie Whitaker (Anita), Kathy Skinner (Larry), and Mike Whitaker (Deanna), Sheryl Haywood, Michael Haywood, Travis Haywood, and Kathleen Haywood; her six grandchildren; and her eleven great-grandchildren, who will continue to cherish her memory and the many lessons she imparted.

Jean also leaves behind her brother, Billy Brown, along with numerous other family members and close friends, all of whom were blessed to know her and be part of her extraordinary journey. Her presence was a gift to all, and her absence will be deeply felt by the many hearts she touched.

Jean’s passion for card games and board games made her a formidable opponent and a sought-after companion at the game table. These activities brought her much happiness and offered her family and friends countless hours of fun and togetherness, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

In her final days, she was blessed with the gentle, unwavering care of her granddaughter, Abi, and her daughter, Kathy, whose presence brought comfort, dignity, and peace. Their devotion—whether sitting quietly at her bedside, offering a steady hand, or simply sharing soft words of love—became a source of strength for the entire family.

A Funeral Service for Jean will be at 2 o’clock on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Chapel of J.C. Harwell & Son Funeral Home with Reverend Ronnie Wynn officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm at the funeral home prior to the service. Interment will be held at 2 o’clock on Sunday, February 22, 2026, located at Pondtown Cemetery in Alabama. J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home has been entrusted with these services.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Peggy "Jean" Haywood, please visit our floral store.