Katherine "Kelly" Hayward

Southbridge: Katherine 'Kelly' Hayward, 64, passed away on October 28th, 2025, at Harrington Hospital, where she was also born on May 21, 1961.

After a long and courageous battle with cancer amongst other ailments, Kelly was finally brought to peace. Though her fight was difficult, she faced each day with remarkable strength, grace, and courage, inspiring all who knew her with her determination and love of life.

Kelly was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend whose love knew no limits and whose family, both given and chosen, meant everything to her. She is survived by her three daughters, Laura Laboy and her husband, Jim Terry of Las Vegas, Melissa Corriveau and her life partner Alfredo Benitez of Worcester, and Tara Kobel and her husband Josh of Holland; six loving siblings, Clark 'Kip' Hayward III of Monson, Andy Hayward of Windsor Locks, CT, Kimberly Elie and her husband Gene of Dolphin Island, AL, Ronald Cox of Brimfield, Jay Hayward of Montana and Cara Pham of Texas; her step mother, Alice Hayward of Texas; her beloved godson, Evan Dewey; her eight grandchildren, Erick Laboy and his wife Kaite, Nicole Laboy, Kelsei Leblanc and her fiancé Caitlin, Katelyn 'Katie' Laboy, Jace Benitez, Tyler O'Connell, Kaiden Kobel, and Trevor Kobel; and four great grandchildren, Carter, Gabriel, Nadia, and soon-to-be Theodore, who were the light of her life; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. She was predeceased by her parents, Helen (Tetrault) Hayward Cox and Clark Hayward, Sr. and two siblings, John Cox and Jeffrey Hayward, who now welcome her home with open arms and eternal peace.

Kelly was a woman of many passions. She loved tending to her garden, riding her Harley motorcycle on sunny days, and spending time with her loved ones and the animals who brought her comfort and joy. She also had a fun-loving spirit and was known to enjoy a good laugh and a glass of Captain Morgan while sharing stories and making memories with family and friends. Her kind heart, adventurous soul, and appreciation for life's simple pleasures left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Her life was defined by compassion, humor, and an unwavering love for her family. Even in her hardest moments, Kelly's spirit shone bright – her laughter, care and strength leave an unforgettable mark on all who knew her.

Calling hours for Kelly will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1st, from 2:00 to 4:00pm in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a funeral service to follow in the funeral home at 4:00pm.

A celebration of life will follow where family and friends are invited to gather to honor her memory, share stories, and raise a glass in her honor - just the way she would have wanted.