James Hayward, Sr

In Loving memory James Hayward, sr

December 3, 1955 - September 28, 2021

James was raised on Redding Rancheria which was known as “the fIat”. He was very proud of his Native heritage throughout his life. In his youth, he was very athletic and was even drafted into the minor leagues and he was a straight A student on the honor roll. He enjoyed playing guitar in his spare time.

James spent some years of his young fatherhood in Canada raising his four sons. He returned to Redding in his late 20’s. Later in life, he spent many years as a cultural leader, not only for his Tribe, but also for many Indigenous Peoples. James loved his culture. He loved and was a fierce protector of his family.

James worked as the Redding Rancheria Cultural Resources Program Manager. During his 12 years as Manager of the Cultural Resources Department, James was integral in establishing the Redding Rancheria Teaching Arbor where bear dancing and feather dancing are held bi-annually. He ensured sweat lodge and traditional teachings continued. He was instrumental in repatriation of Wintu remains and funerary artifacts. James was passionate about the repatriations of remains and artifacts and protected sacred sensitive sites. He known for and did many prayers in the community for gatherings and funerals. James assisted in the introduction of Ishi in the California Hall of Fame.

James held various positions on the Redding Rancheria Tribal Council. He served on multiple boards, including but not limited to, Redding Rancheria Cultural Committee, Cannabis Committee, Election Committee, Enrollment Committee and Investment Committee. He served as board member to RREDCO Board, RUCCO Board, and Win-River Governing Board. The Stillwater Pow-Wow Committee acknowledged James as an Honored Elder in 2017. He currently served as Gaming Commissioner.

James was a wingman for California Bear Ceremonies. His dream was to dance the bear, he wanted his family to remain close, and he hoped to help in the construction of a new Cultural Center for the Redding Rancheria Tribe so that it would highlight the vibrant history of the Tribe and the ancestors.

James is survived by his sons, Jason Hayward, Sr., Shayne Hayward, and Justin Hayward; Grandchildren, Jason Hayward, Jr., Nathan Hayward, Ember Hayward, Brianna Hayward Munguia, Brandon Hayward, Shad Hayward, Kaleb Hayward, and Liam LeBacq Hayward; Great-Grandchildren, Lorenzo Munguia, Theodore Munguia, Trinity Hayward, Teigan Hayward, Tehlelah Hayward, Morlee Hayward, Chase Hayward; Adopted grandchildren, Nani Christie, Marcos Christie and Matias Bravo; Sister Ramona Schumacher; Daughter-in-law, Summer Hayward; many nieces and nephews; Partner, Wendy Maughs and Ex-wife, Lauri Davis.