ROCKLAND — Ryan Joseph Hayward, 28, died unexpectedly, Tuesday, September 8, 2020, in Portland, from complications of Type I Diabetes and other health issues.

Born in Rockport, April 14, 1992, he was the son of Bethany L. Hayward and Joel A. Long. During his younger years, he lived in Rockland and St. George.

He began school at South School in Rockland, and later attended St. George Elementary School. Ryan attended Rockland District High School and particularly enjoyed his time at Mid-Coast School of Technology. Ryan worked at several trades including commercial fishing, mechanic, lawn maintenance and boat maintenance and had recently started his own business.

While taking Karate lessons, Ryan was introduced by his coach to a professional boxing promoter in New York. He ultimately fought on the Professional Boxing Circuit in New York, under the name of Hailstorm Hayward.
During that time, Ryan achieved one knock-out and a draw match, one of which was publicized on ESPN.

Ryan had an incredible heart and was loved by everyone.

A talented artist, he loved to draw coastal fishing and boat scenes.

Ryan is survived by his mother, Bethany L. Hayward of Waldoboro; his father, Joel A. Long of Cushing; his siblings, Christopher Hayward, Kaitlynne Hayward, twins Mariah and Meaghan Hayward, Kyle Long, Lily Long; his maternal grandparents, Dale and Geri Hayward of Rockland; his paternal grandparents, Joseph Long of St. George, Josephine Cushman of Searsmont; his paternal great-grandmother, Sally Long of St. George; aunts and uncles, Jarred and Shona Long of Cushing, Dennessa and Foy Hildings of Searsmont, Justin and Karen Long of St. George, Jason Long and Kristan Hilchey of Rockport, Mike and Angie Long of St. George, Cheryl Long of St. George, Kristina Long of Rockland, Jolene Long of Rockland, Hilary Long of St. George; six nieces and nephews including, Braylynne, Oakley, Emerson, Bryson, Kalliope, and Aubrey, as well as many extended family members and friends.

Ryan’s family would like to extend a very special “Thank You” to Todd Nichols and family, who were always there for Ryan. They are true friends forever.

An outdoor celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 19, 2020, at 10 a.m., at “The Cross,” 11 Cranberry Isle Drive, (off Old County Road) Rockland. Jake Barbour will officiate.

Family and friends are also invited to a remembrance service  Thursday, October 1, 2020, at 2:00 p.m., at Rockland Congregational Church, 180 Limerock Street, Rockland. The Reverend Seth Jones will officiate.

Those who wish may make memorial donations to A.I.O. Food and Energy Assistance, P.O. Box 113, Rockland, Maine 04841.

To share a memory or story with Ryan’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, Rockland.