Julie Anne Hayward

Julie Anne (Barney) Hayward was born on June 16, 1947, in Battle Creek, Michigan to the late Samuel A. and Margaret L. (Rye) Barney. She spent her childhood in Battle Creek and on Pine Lake in Delton, Michigan which she loved her entire life. A 1965 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School where Julie was a member of the swim team and enjoyed her high school friends.
Julie was united in marriage to the late Phillip Piper in 1965, with whom she had three sons, Timothy (Teri) Piper, Troy (JJ) Piper and Trent (Jenni) Piper.
On April 17, 1982, Julie married the love of her life, Gary Wayne Hayward, adding Gary's children, Kelly (Jim) Mezo and the late Randy Hayward to the family. Together they persevered running the Climax Post Office, raising five crazy kids, building a tax and accounting business, and never missing a sunny day on Pine Lake.
Julie was preceded in death by her parents; stepson; sister and brother-in-law, Kathy & Ron Harper; and many beloved pet dogs. She is survived by husband, Gary Hayward; brother, James Barney; four children and their spouses; 14 grandchildren with 9 spouses and 10 great-grandchildren.
A private family interment will take place at Prairie Home Cemetery in Climax, MI.
A celebration of Julie's life will be held at the Scotts Community Center, 8450 36th Street South, Scotts, MI 49088, on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 from 3:00 - 7:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Climax United Methodist Church and/or Climax Rotary Club.
The family would like to thank the team at Kerak Assisted Living in Battle Creek, Michigan, whose care and love for Julie blessed her final years of life.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800. www.baxterfuneral.com.