James D. Hayne
May 24, 1942 - August 12, 2025
James D. Hayne
James Darwin Hayne, formerly of Hillsdale, Michigan, passed away on August 12, 2025, at the Southwestern Veterans’ Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where he had been living since April 29, 2025. James was born on May 24, 1942, in Toledo, Ohio to Zale and Miriam (Toby) Hayne and was a 1960 graduate of Rogers High School. Upon graduation, he entered the U.S. Navy. James was stationed in Hawaii and spent much of his time in the air, flying between Hawaii, Midway Island, and Alaska while working the radar. James served until March 30, 1964, when he was transferred into the Navel Reserve for an additional two years. James attended Bowling Green University where he completed his bachelor’s degree in business administration. He went on to attend Law School at the University of Toledo and graduated with his Juris Doctor on December 11, 1970. James attended classes on an accelerated schedule, finishing the seven-year required studies in just over five years.
James is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Connie Hayne. He is survived by his three children; Chad Hayne, Todd Hayne and Amy (Curtis) Wagner; seven grandchildren, Austin Hayne, Lauren Morton, Taylor Hayne, Kaden Hayne, Emma Wagner, Anna Wagner and James Wagner; and one great grandchild, Stella Hayne. He is also survived by two nieces, Kelly Jones and Kim Periat; and great niece and nephews, Kamdyn Periat, Grant Periat and Andrew Jones. He is preceded in passing by his parents and stepfather Bill Roach.
In addition to practicing law for over 50 years, James served as the chief judge of the second judicial district in Hillsdale and Lenawee counties for five years. During his last two years on the bench, in addition to his duties as district judge, he was selected by the Court Administration Office to handle racial problems in courts throughout the state of Michigan. James was also a former Hillsdale County Prosecuting Attorney.
While raising his three children, James enjoyed boating on Lake Baw Beese, golfing, socializing at Clor’s Outpost, over four decades of playing ping pong with many of his closest friends, and telling jokes to anyone who would listen. Later in life, James enjoyed coffee with the ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eat Out) where they discussed topics of the day and endlessly hassled each other. James loved family gatherings and hosting Thanksgiving with his wife, Connie. He enjoyed taking family vacations to Cashiers, North Carolina and following PGA golf events. James took immense pride in his family and had a way of making everyone feel special and loved. He was especially in love with Connie, his high school sweetheart, who he met his senior year of high school before he entered the Navy. Upon returning home, James ran into Connie’s Mom, who mentioned he should give Connie a call and the rest is history. James will be dearly missed by family and friends.
At his request cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life to honor him will be held at the Hillsdale Community Church of the Nazarene on Saturday, October 11, 2025, beginning at 11:00 am with Pastor Mike Prince officiating at noon. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Hillsdale Community Church of the Nazarene. Private family interment will take place at the Historic Woodlawn Cemetery in Toledo, Ohio following the Celebration of Life.
