Obituary

Dr. Roger Haywood of Evansville, IN passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 30, 2021 at Linda B. White Hospice House. Roger will be remembered for his kind nature, quick wit, and deep devotion to his family, friends and patients.

 

Roger was born in 1947 in Somerville, NJ to Rosemary and Noel Haywood. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sandra Haywood, and two children: Kim Haywood-Pfender (Keely Porter) and Courtney Haywood. “Pop” Haywood was the beloved grandfather of twins Samuel and Danielle Pfender. Roger is survived by his brother Brian Haywood (Lucy) and five nieces and nephews. Roger was preceded in death by his son Gregory Haywood, brother Albert Haywood, and parents.

 

Roger graduated from Indiana University School of Optometry in 1971. He joined the Air Force during Vietnam and was in awe of fighter pilots, often enjoying air shows throughout his life. The highlight of his time at Nellis Air Force Base was his flight in a fighter plane with a trickster buddy. (It’s not cold up there.)

 

In 1974 Roger joined Dr. Murl Crowley and Dr. Bill Simmons in private practice and established Evansville Eyecare Associates, Inc. For 47 years Roger was devoted to the Indiana Optometric Association. He was honored by his peers in 2012 as Indiana Optometrist of the Year. His love for his patients and providing their care was evident every day. He touched the lives of many of his coworkers, creating a cherished, family atmosphere in his office. He was extremely proud of his daughter, Dr. Kim, who joined him for the last 25 years of his career.

 

Roger’s greatest love was his family. He and “Sandra J” met on a blind date and were married within six months. He will always be her “Pooh.” Roger had unwavering love and support for his children and always knew exactly what to say. When his grandchildren arrived, Pop said it was “the best thing ever.” (in the presence of his daughter)

 

Roger had many dear, lifelong friends. His couples’ bridge group and Rolling Hills golfing buddies were a special part of his life. He was also honored to join The Blue Knights and enjoyed the Evansville Duplicate Bridge Club, where he became a Life Master. His other hobbies were horse races, photography, riding his Harley motorcycles, the New York Yankees, IU basketball, and trading stocks. He had a passion for driving sports cars until his final days, most recently with his long-awaited Tesla. Roger was known for his innate fashion sense, believing that one could never have too many white golf polos or Life is Good shirts.

 

Roger enjoyed visiting the Outer Banks to spend time with his brother and family. Roger and Sandy both enjoyed their second home and friends in The Villages, FL. Luckily, teaching his grandchildren to drive his golf cart there never resulted in any (major) mishaps.

 

Roger will be greatly missed by many who shared in his life. Visitation is 2-6pm on Monday, July 5, 2021 at Boone Funeral Home East Chapel, 5330 Washington Avenue. His Celebration of Life will be held at 6pm. Please come with stories!

 

A Live Stream will be available beginning twenty minutes prior to service time. Please visit www.boonefuneralhome.net, select the obituary, scroll to the bottom of the page, and click Live Stream.

 

A Graveside Service will be held at 10:00 AM, Tuesday July 6, 2021 in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, 1800 St George Road, Evansville, IN.

 

Memorial Contributions may be made to Evansville Association for the Blind at 500 N 2nd Avenue, Evansville, IN 47710 or The Prader-Willi Syndrome Association at 8588 Potter Park Drive, Suite 500, Sarasota, FL 34238.