Belinda Yvonne McKeon

1959 - 2025

Mashantucket - In Loving Memory of Belinda Yvonne (Hayward) McKeon (June 16, 1959 – April 10, 2025) With heavy hearts and enduring love, we share the passing of our cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Belinda Yvonne (Hayward) McKeon. Belinda passed peacefully Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Westerly Hospital, surrounded by the warmth and strength of her family - just as she had surrounded them with unwavering love throughout her life. She was 65 years old.

Belinda was a proud member of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation (MPTN) and called the reservation home her entire life. Her deep connection to her people, her land, and her heritage was at the heart of everything she did. That strength and pride shaped not only her own life, but the lives of all who knew and loved her.

Born in Long Beach, Calif., June 16, 1959, Belinda was the daughter of Richard and Theresa (Plouffe) Hayward. She was raised in a devoted military family, led by her father, a U.S. Navy serviceman who achieved the rank of Hospital Corpsman First Class and served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. His dedication and service instilled in Belinda a powerful sense of responsibility, resilience, and work ethic - values she carried throughout her life. Growing up, Belinda moved frequently, including to North Kingston, R.I., and Berlin, Md., before finally settling in Connecticut. She graduated from Ledyard High School in 1977, after also attending Stephen Decatur High School in Maryland.

Belinda's dedication to emergency services began in the early 1980s, and she continued serving her community through 1995. Her work wasn't just a job - it was a reflection of her caring nature, her commitment to others, and her tireless work ethic. When the bingo hall opened, she began her official job as EMS staff, obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. Alongside her husband, Gary, she played an integral role in the development of the public safety complex, where they helped establish and manage emergency services. Together, they purchased fire trucks and ambulances and built a strong infrastructure for public safety in the MPTN community.

Before the casino opened, Belinda was deeply involved in volunteer emergency medical services (EMS) work. She was the person everyone turned to in times of medical need, always willing to drop everything to help her community. Whether volunteering as an EMT with the Ledyard Emergency Squad during her free time or while working at a restaurant or the package store, Belinda was always there for others. For years, she was known for going door-to-door, responding to medical calls, and offering her services with selflessness and care. Her passion for helping those in need was evident every day, and it was a calling she answered with both heart and determination.

In 1995, alongside her husband and best friend Gary, she co-founded Joshua's Limousine, which later grew into Joshua's Worldwide Transportation - a thriving, family-run business that continues to carry her spirit and legacy. Belinda also served her Tribal Nation with honor, first as Chief of Licensing for the Gaming Enterprise and later as a Gaming Commissioner, where she upheld her responsibilities with strength and integrity. In 2011, she and Gary launched their second business, Scooter Along, demonstrating her relentless drive and entrepreneurial spirit.

But Belinda's greatest achievements were found in her family. She poured her heart into her home, her children, and especially her grandchildren. Her home was a sanctuary - filled with warmth, laughter, love, and, of course, animals she adored. She found joy in her beautifully kept yard, where lawn mowing became her personal form of therapy. She never passed up an opportunity to travel, especially if it meant a family cruise or a trip to Ocean City, Md., with everyone along for the adventure.

Belinda leaves behind a beautiful legacy in the family she so dearly loved: her husband and soulmate, Gary McKeon; her children and grandchildren: Jeff and his wife Michelle and their children, Jeffrey Jr., Jackson and Jayce; David and his wife Bonny and their children, Hailey, David III and Kash; Tiffany and her daughter Addison; Joshua and his wife Stephani and their children: Shyann, Shiloe, Syrina-Evon, Shea and Yogi; Theresa and her husband Manny and their children: Lawrence, Lanette, Bruce, Julian, Jacob, Rodney and Amiya. She is also survived by her siblings, who loved her dearly: Skip, Susan, Theresa (Darnice), Cyndi, Patty and Robert; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins; and extended family. She is now reunited with her beloved parents; Richard and Theresa Hayward; her dear brother, Rodney Hayward; and her cherished sister, Sandy Daggett.

Belinda lived life on her own terms. She taught those around her how to be strong in the face of adversity, how to love without condition, and how to keep moving forward no matter the obstacle. Her legacy is one of grace, grit, and unconditional love - a legacy we will carry in our hearts forever. We miss her more than words can express, but we are endlessly grateful for the time we had with her, the memories she gifted us, and the example she set.

Services will be Visiting Hours from 5 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 16, at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum, 110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket. Burial to follow at Avery-Stoddard Cemetery, Ledyard.