Denny K. Hayden

Denny “Kenny” Kendall Hayden, age 76, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025. Kenny was the beloved husband of Jean Hayden (née Sumlar); a loving father to Denise Elmlinger; and a cherished family member to Mickey Smith (John) and La Donna Leach (Mark). He was a proud Papaw to Kendall Elmlinger and Hayden Elmlinger, and an honorary Papaw to Tiara Lupidi (Jim). In addition to his immediate family, Kenny is survived by his brothers, Steve Hayden, Tommy Hayden, and Billy Hayden; his sister, Diane (Hayden) Savage; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Marshall Hayden; his mother, Francis Hayden (née Long); and his brother, Michael Hayden.

Born in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, Kenny later made Cincinnati his home, where he raised his family and built a life filled with love and laughter. He deeply enjoyed spending time with those he loved and could often be found listening to music. An avid fisherman and devoted Elvis fan, Kenny was well known for his sense of humor and his infectious laugh—especially when his granddaughters managed to play a joke on him.

A graveside burial service will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Reading Cemetery, 200 W. Columbia Ave., Reading, Ohio 45215.

Kenny will be remembered for his warmth, his laughter, and the love he shared so freely with his family and friends.