George Francis Hayden, 70 years old, of Newburg, MD, passed away on January 6, 2026 in Prince Frederick, MD.

George dedicated most of his life to serving the citizens of Charles County. He joined the Bel Alton Volunteer Fire Department at a young age and fueled his passion for firefighting and helping those in the worst of times. Throughout the years, he rose through the ranks and held many leadership positions in the fire and EMS community, including Past President and Past Chief of the Bel Alton Volunteer Fire Department, as well as a Charter Member, Past President, and Past Fire Chief at the Newburg Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department. In addition, George held leadership positions such as President and Fire Chief of the Charles County Volunteer Fire Association, President of the Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen's Association and retired as a 911 Fire/EMS Communications Supervisor from the Charles County Department of Emergency Services.

Throughout his life, George remained an active and engaged member of the fire service, regularly attending company meetings, events, and Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen's Association gatherings. In his free moments, he was also a mechanic, truck driver, business owner, 911 dispatcher, and a volunteer.

George loved animals and almost always had a pet dog or cat, sometimes both, along with horses. In more recent years, when he was no longer able to jump onto a firetruck or an ambulance when the call came, he became a devoted fur dad to senior Yorkies, offering a gentle, caring hand and a soft place to land. George was a friend and mentor to many. He carried a quiet, almost bashful smile and had a gentle way of connecting with people, often without needing many words. With a deep love for others, George guided and supported those around him with kindness and wisdom, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

George is predeceased by his wife, Pamela Dee Hayden; his parents, Luther and Elois Hayden; and son Andrew Hayden.

George is survived by his son, Charles "Bill" Hayden; grandson, Daniel Hayden; Daniel's mother, Krisztina Hayden; his Yorkie, Kash; brother, David Hayden; and sister, Amy Farrell.

A visitation for George will be held at Bel Alton Fire Department (9765 Bel Alton Newtown Rd, Bel Alton, MD 20611) on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 from 5pm to 8pm with Firemans/EMT prayers at 7pm.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Bel Alton Fire Department (9765 Bel Alton Newtown Rd, Bel Alton, MD 20611), Newburg Fire Department (P.O. Box 9, Newburg, MD 20664), Charles County Animal Care Center (6707 Animal Shelter Rd., Hughesville, MD 20637, and Charles County Humane Society (P. O. Box 1015, Waldorf, MD 20604).