Jo-Ann M. Hayford

HARTFORD – Jo-Ann M. Hayford, 80, of Hartford, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, surrounded by the love of her family.

Jo-Ann was born on Jan. 2, 1946, in Rumford, the daughter of Francis N. and Alice M. (Sloane) Porter. She was predeceased by her parents and her stepfather, Harry F. “Bunny” Carver. Jo-Ann was a graduate of Stephens High School, class of 1964.

Jo-Ann’s life was marked by compassion, strong moral character, and devotion to her work and family. Her first job, while still in high school, was at Bear Pond Roller Rink -chosen so she could enjoy one of her earliest passions, roller skating. She later worked for many years as a Lender at Oxford Federal Credit Union in Mexico and went on to serve as Assistant Branch Manager at Franklin Savings Bank in Rumford, later becoming Branch Manager at Franklin Savings Bank in Mexico, until retiring in 2008. She took pride in her work and built many lasting relationships throughout her career.

Jo-Ann was an active and caring member of her community and a longtime member of the Mexico Lions Club. She loved music and embraced life’s simple pleasures. Jo-Ann cherished many special times spent at both Moosehead Lake and Mooselookmeguntic Lake camping, fishing, and soaking in the outdoors alongside her family. She loved traveling, grabbing lunch with friends, and spending time shopping at the mall with her daughter. She also found great joy in playing board and card games, particularly with her grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as “JoJo.” Jo-Ann was a familiar face at her grandchildren’s activities, especially sporting events, where she could often be found cheering them on with pride. Some of her happiest moments were spent gathered around the table, laughing and making memories with family.

Jo-Ann was also a NASCAR fan. She enjoyed watching races from home and from the grandstand, a love that began years ago while watching her favorites race at Oxford Plains Speedway (#109).

Jo-Ann was the heart of her family. She was deeply nonjudgmental, kind, and accepting, with a remarkable ability to make others feel comfortable, valued, and loved. She was a great friend to many and cherished those friendships greatly. Jo-Ann also had a special love for animals and for all living things, reflecting her gentle, compassionate spirit – something made all the more meaningful given she shared her life with a husband and son who were passionate hunters. She was especially close with her sister Julie sharing many moments of laughter and love.

On Sept. 28, 1973, Jo-Ann married the love of her life, Lyndon “Lyndy” Hayford, in Skowhegan. They made a life together, centered on love and family.

She is survived by her husband, Lyndy Hayford of Hartford; her daughter, Bobbi New and husband Scot of Rumford; her son, Terrence “Terry” Hayford and wife Rene of Coplin; her beloved grandchildren, Zachary and Jacob New and Reese Hayford; and her sister, Julie Boucher and her companion Gerry Guenther of Lewiston.

Jo-Ann will be lovingly remembered as the best – wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her legacy of love, acceptance, laughter, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her, and she will be deeply missed.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute for their care and compassion.

Friends and family are invited to share memories of Jo-Ann at http://www.meaderandson.com.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.