It is with profound sadness and disbelief that we announce the sudden passing of Gerald “Jerry” W. Hayman Jr., at the age of 61, on August 8, 2025. Jerry passed away doing what he loved most, at his cherished camp, surrounded by the beauty of nature that brought him such peace and joy.

Born on February 25, 1964, in Bangor to Gerry Hayman and the late Mary Grindle, Jerry grew up in Orono and Veazie. A proud member of the Orono High School class of 1983, Jerry carried with him the Red Riot spirit throughout his life—”Once a Red Riot, always a Red Riot.” He later attended the University of Maine Orono, where he earned his degree in accounting and finance, setting the stage for a long and successful career.

Jerry dedicated his life to service, providing business solutions to local organizations, many of which benefited from his expertise. He served in roles at the University of Maine Alumni Association, Healthcare Charities, Eastern Maine Development Corporation, Eastern Maine Community College, and most recently as the Director of Business Services for the Bangor School Department. Jerry’s commitment to his community extended beyond his work, as he served for 29 years as a board member of the University Credit Union, including 10 years as president of the board. He also contributed to the Orono Economic Development Committee.

Jerry is survived by his beloved spouse, Duska Hayman, with whom he was about to celebrate 35 years of marriage on August 18. He is also survived by their daughter, MacKenzie Hayman, and her partner, Anna Rausa. Jerry was predeceased by his loyal “boys,” Tucker and Baxter, and will be deeply missed by his family, including his sisters, Lynn Umble (Tim Wright), Sue Antworth, and Belinda Moreshead (Sean); his brothers, Eric Pelletier (Christina) and Garett Hayman; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was predeceased by his stepmother, Elaine Hayman, brothers-in-law Tommy Kenneson and Chuck Antworth, and great-nephews Korbyn Antworth and Oliver Braley.

Friends, family, and colleagues are invited to calling hours on Saturday, August 16, from 12 to 2 p.m. at Birmingham Funeral Home in Old Town. A short graveside service will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Veazie, where attendees will have a chance to share their thoughts and memories of Jerry.

Jerry will be remembered for his quick wit, dry sarcasm, and sharp sense of humor, as well as his gentle demeanor, patience, and unwavering loyalty. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, son, and uncle—roles that he embraced with love and dedication. His absence will leave an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him, and his memory will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations of new or gently used books in the fantasy or sci-fi genre, which will be donated to the Bangor School Department for placement in the school libraries. Jerry had a special love for books with maps, so if one is included—extra credit!

Jerry, we love you and will miss you terribly. Until we meet again, your Duska.