Obituary of Brenda Hayward

Hayward-Bodkin -Brenda Joyce (nee Freeman) Peacefully on December 8th, 2025, after a long courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, Brenda passed surrounded by her family. Her tireless battle done, she joins her husband, Ronald George Bodkin, her parents, Daphne Joyce (nee Staniland) and William James Freeman, brother, James Guy Squire Freeman, and her many loving friends and pets who predeceased her. She will be greatly missed by her children Kathrine Elizabeth Hayward (John Munro), April Joyce Hayward (Deanna Manson), and James John Hayward (Seana Lovato), her grandchildren Scarlet October Hayward-Mallet (Jesse March), Alexander Cole Hayward, and Oliver Maxwell Hayward. Additionally, she will be missed by her stepchildren Ronald Jeffery Bodkin (Catherine Bodkin), Amy Elizabeth Bodkin-Dorsh (Pat Dorsh), and step grandchildren Liam Alexander Bodkin and Fiona Elizabeth Bodkin. Olaf the Brave remained vigil to her throughout her battle and will miss their afternoon cuddles on the bed and couch. Born on August 6th, 1945, to her war bride (and first aid provider) mother and RCAF father, in Stratford Ontario, Brenda moved frequently with her family during her childhood. Her cottage on Bogies Beach became the place she called home and she enjoyed many years of sunsets and laughter. An avid birder, loving grandmother, and skilled crafter (knitter, quilter, crocheter, seamstress), she spent much of her time donating or making gifts for friends, family, charities, and her church group at Knox United in Nepean. Long a resident of Ottawa, she was teacher by trade (graduate of University of Toronto) and by choice throughout her professional life as she served in the Canadian Civil Service, a career which took on many amazing adventures around the world. She spent many years volunteering for the Big Brothers of Canada, Canadian National Institute for the Blind, and local sports teams and organizations. When it rained, mom put on her rain boots and splashed in the puddles - literally and figuratively. Her grace, strength, altruism, and love of life and friends will live on in our memories as we miss her always. A special thank you to the staff at Windsor Essex Hospice who provided comfortable, dignified care during mum’s transition. Love you Mom. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Hospice of Windsor Essex, Pancreatic Cancer Canada, or the Cancer Society are appreciated. Arrangement entrusted to Windsor Chapel (Banwell Chapel)11677 Tecumseh Rd E (519)253-7235