James Edward “Buster” Haywood, 70, passed away Sunday, October 25, 2020. He was born September 12, 1950 in Union County, NC son of the late John R. & Hattie Helms Haywood, he was preceded in death by a brother John Arnold Haywood. Mr. Haywood was a proud Army Veteran, where he served in Germany. He loved to travel, working with his hands, and spending time with Carole at the Casino. He loved his family and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. A graveside service will be held 1:00 PM, Wednesday October 28, 2020 at Lakeland Memorial Park. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:30 AM until 12:30 PM at Gordon Funeral Service, 1904 Lancaster Ave., Monroe NC 28112. Buster is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Carolyn Funderburk Haywood, a son James C. Haywood of Monroe, a daughter Misty Laney and husband Michael of Monroe, a brother David Haywood and wife Minnie of Sevierville, TN, three sisters; Peggy Steele and husband Gary of Marshville, Doris Privette and husband Charles, of Indian Trail & Judy Roach of Monroe, a sister-in-law Diane Haywood of Waynesboro, VA, and two grandchildren Bryson Haywood & Stephanie Laney of Monroe. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Novant Health Foundation Hospice P. O. Box 33549 Charlotte, NC 28233-3549, or Hometown Heroes of Union County P.O. Box 953 Monroe, NC 28111-0953. Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory is caring for the Haywood Family.