Hayward Savage Edmunds Sr.

Hayward Savage Edmunds, Sr. passed away on January 11, 2026 at Eden Terrace of Spartanburg at the age of 84.

Hayward was born September 5, 1941 to John Boyd Edmunds and Helen Savage Edmunds in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Hayward later graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s Degree and proudly served in the South Carolina National Guard for 13 years. He spent his career in property management and real estate in his native hometown until he retired, thereafter serving the community of Greenwood, South Carolina for many years through his volunteer work at Faith Home Christian Recovery.

Hayward was also a brilliant and talented painter who generously gifted his work to his wonderful family and friends. Too, he was a self-taught musician who played the guitar and sang beautifully—or, at times, bawdily—to everyone’s delight (he could truly harmonize like few others). An avid fisherman and outdoorsman, Hayward enjoyed decades in the Lowcountry marshes with many of his best buddies, and often as the magnetic and gifted storyteller who regaled all in the room with hilarious tales and childhood stories. A wonderfully witty father and grandfather, Hayward was known by many names (“Pop,” “Teddy Bear,” “Big Cowboy”) and would just as easily bestow equally affectionate monikers upon others. Until his passing, Hayward especially enjoyed his Friday lunches with dear friends and the many visitors he received at his home.

A loving father and grandfather, Hayward is survived by his three children: Hayward Savage Edmunds Jr. (Kim), Elizabeth Edmunds Smith (Childs), and Margaret Edmunds Evans (Vann); as well as seven grandchildren: Hays, Sam, and Jack Edmunds; Carlisle and Rucker Smith; and Sully and Sawyer Evans. He was predeceased by his long-term partner, Linda Self, and by his brother, John Edmunds.

Hayward truly lived by his personal philosophy “you gotta be a friend to have a friend” and was thus known and loved by all he encountered for his never-ending care, love, and outstanding friendship for many years. He will be missed by many.

A service will be held to celebrate his life at the Episcopal Church of the Advent on January 15, 2026 at 4 p.m. with a reception following at the Piedmont Club of Spartanburg, South Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, please send any donations in Hayward’s memory to Faith Home Christian Recovery, 144 Faith Home Rd, Greenwood, SC 29649.

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