Kathy Ann Hayden, of Fresno, CA, passed away at her home peacefully on September 14, 2026, at the age of 71, surrounded by her loved ones. Kathy was the beloved daughter of Gaylord and Mae Hayden, a cherished stepdaughter to Diane Hayden, and a loving sister to Kurt and Randy Hayden. She was a devoted mother to Matthew Del Priore, adoring grandmother to Matthew’s son, Liam Williams, and a caring companion to her fur babies, AnnaBelle, Teddy, Yogi, and Midnight.Kathy graduated from Sentinel High School in Missoula, Montana, in 1973. Among her fondest childhood memories was her involvement with Young Life, a Christian youth organization that helped establish her faith in Jesus and lifelong commitment to serving Him. She earned a BA in Psychology from North Park University in Chicago, Illinois, in 1978. She later earned a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from George Williams College in Williams Bay, Wisconsin, in 1981. Kathy built a successful career around her passion for helping others, focusing primarily on child and adolescent mental health and marriage and family counseling. After college, she moved to Nome, Alaska, where she worked as an alcohol counselor serving American Indian and Alaska Native communities. In her spare time, she was a DJ for KICY Christian Radio—Voice of the Arctic. Kathy devoted her life to serving people in need through a wide range of organizations and roles. After her work in Alaska, she continued supporting families throughout California’s Monterey, Fresno, and Madera counties, generously sharing her expertise. She worked tirelessly to assist parents through the Fresno and Madera County Public Health Departments, Exceptional Parents Unlimited, and WestCare, where she served as Clinical Director. In 2011, Kathy founded Hayden Counseling and Consultation, a private practice that served the Fresno community. Through marriage and family counseling, over 15 years she guided hundreds of families through some of life’s most difficult challenges. Kathy shared her expertise for many years through educational events and as an adjunct faculty member at National University. She mentored aspiring therapists and readily offered advice and encouragement to those committed to helping others. Kathy also loved traveling and embraced many adventures. She completed the Honolulu Marathon in Hawaii in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, visited China through the Chamber of Commerce and walked the Great Wall of China, cruised in Alaska, explored Venice and Barcelona with friends, and spent two weeks traveling through Scandinavia, where Bergen, Norway, felt like home. Her final journey was a recent cruise to Mexico for a family reunion. Kathy’s greatest legacy was helping others. Throughout her life, she rescued people and animals alike, offering love, care, spiritual and financial support, and a safe place to those in need. Her compassion, generosity, and devotion touched countless lives.

Kathy will be deeply missed by her son, Matthew; her grandson Liam; her twin brother, Kurt and older brother Randy and their families; her cousins; her beloved pets; and everyone who knew and loved her. Her memory will endure in the many people and animals whose lives she forever changed. May Kathy rest peacefully, knowing that her kindness, generosity and love made the world a better place. A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held in the coming months with details posted on Kathy’s Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Kathy’s memory by performing a random act of kindness, spending time with someone you love, or donating to one of her favorite charities. Although Kathy generously supported many organizations, she was especially fond of Compassion International, Animal Rescue of Fresno (ARF), and Valley Animal Shelter. Additional causes close to her heart will be shared at her celebration of life.