Marion Roy Hayden

Roy Hayden was a lifelong martial artist whose heart and spirit found a true home within Hogan Karate International (HKI) - a group of like minded individuals that became more than an organization and martial school; it became his family. His journey began in 1991 under the guidance of Grandmaster Jack Hogan, where he immersed himself in the study of Ryukyu Kempo and Kyusho Jitsu. From those first days on the mat, Roy's dedication, humility, and love for the art shone brightly.
Over the years, his path carried him across the United States, Europe, and Costa Rica - teaching, training, and forging lifelong bonds with his HKI brothers and sisters. His passion and commitment earned him the distinguished rank of 7th Dan Grandmaster in Ryukyu Kempo (later known as Hogan-Ryu), as well as recognition as a Master Kyusho Instructor, Senior Leader, and, above all, a brother and mentor to those within the HKI family he cherished deeply.
Roy embodied the spirit that defines HKI - one of openness, compassion, and unity. Alongside Tiffany and Briar Rose, he became an inseparable part of the HKI family, giving love freely and receiving it in abundance. His humor, warmth, and unwavering dedication inspired generations of martial artists across the globe. For Roy, HKI was not merely an organization - it was a home, a family, and a lifelong calling.
Each annual camp and seminar was a family reunion, filled with laughter, lessons, and the shared joy of training together. His teachings, stories, and lighthearted jokes continue to live on in his martial brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews - echoes of a man whose spirit still moves through every dojo and every heart he touched.
Even while deployed, Roy carried the HKI spirit with him - teaching shipmates, sharing stories from the road, and spreading the camaraderie and humor that defined his character. Martial arts wasn't just something he practiced; it was woven into who he was.
In his final moments, Roy was exactly where he belonged - on the mat, surrounded by family, inspiring others, sharing knowledge, wisdom, and laughter. He left this world doing what he loved, among those he loved, embodying the heart and soul of both his art and his HKI family.
A proud United States Navy veteran (Ret.), Roy served his country with honor and carried that same spirit of service into every aspect of his life.
Roy lived a life marked by kindness, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Roy and Tiffany shared a love of family made together, raising Briar Rose, and travel. He was the man who hung the moon to Briar Rose. Many wonderful moments from home and travels elsewhere never to be forgotten. Though we mourn his loss, we celebrate the incredible life he lived and the legacy of love and lessons he left behind.
Roy is survived by Tiffany of the home; daughter, Briar Rose (Tyler); two bonus sons, Mio and Odei; extended family and friends including The HKI Family, Barb Hey; brother, Tory Hayden (Sherri), sister- in -law, Wendy Spears (John) and many nieces and nephews.
Roy is preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Iona Hayden.
A memorial service will be held at later date.