November 24, 1945 – October 28, 2025
Tom Hayden passed away at his home in Scott Valley on October 28, 2025. He was preceded in death by his father, Nerva Malcolm Hayden Jr.; his mother, Lois Lucille Hayden Tozier (Custer); and his wife, Marsha Hayden (Taylor).
A lifelong resident of Scott Valley, Tom was known as an exceptional cattle rancher and a devoted family man. He graduated from Etna High School with the Class of 1963 and earned a Bachelor of Science from Chico State. During his college years, Tom was active in the Young Farmers program and on the Livestock Judging Team. After completing his degree in Animal Science, Tom returned to Scott Valley to help on the family ranch. In 1972, he spent two months in Norway as a representative on the Rotary Group Study Exchange Team, an experience he cherished for the rest of his life.
Through his tenure as a cattleman, Tom served as Siskiyou Cattlemen’s Association President, and in 1997, he was appointed to the California Beef Council by the CA Secretary of Agriculture, where he served for two terms. His calm and optimistic manner was one of Tom’s most special qualities. The Tom Hayden Ranch was a place where everyone was welcome, and many learned from his wisdom, humor, and generosity.
Tom is survived by his daughter, Kory Hayden, and his grandson, Hayden Thomas Rogers; his sisters, Arleen Earnest and Sheridan Haley; and six beloved nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at the Scott Valley Berean Church on Saturday, November 15th at 11:00 a.m., followed by a procession to the Hayden Family Cemetery for burial, and a reception at the Berean Church.
Flowers for the service may be ordered through Twigs and Springs in Yreka. Memorial contributions can be sent to the Scott Valley Pleasure Park Association, P.O. Box 337, Etna, CA 96027.
