Steve Hayworth, of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on November 11, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born on May 8, 1947, in Columbus, Indiana, Steve moved with his family to Linwood, New Jersey in 1955 and later to Basking Ridge in 1962. He was a proud graduate of Ridge High School’s Class of 1965—the first class to attend the new school for all four years.

After high school, Steve began working for the Red Devil Tool Company, where he started training in computer programming. In June of 1966, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving honorably as an Electric Power Line Specialist in Germany during the Vietnam War. He was promoted to Staff Sergeant in February of 1970 and received his honorable discharge that June.

After his discharge from the Air Force, Steve met the love of his life, Karen. The two were married in October of 1971 and went on to build a beautiful life together in the town that became home to three generations of their family.

Steve enjoyed a long and successful career as an estimator and salesman for Nelson Westerberg Atlas Van Lines, a role that took him throughout the northeast.

Deeply committed to his community, Steve was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow by the Bernardsville Rotary Club for his service administering Medic Alert programs. He was known for his kindness, sense of humor, and the joy he found in spending time with friends and family.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; his children, Brad Hayworth (Kelly) and Monica Groel (Bobby); his six grandchildren, Danny, Justin, Kenny, Adam, Johnny, and Tommy; and his brother, Mike. He was predeceased by his mother, Ruth; his father, Kenneth; and his stepfather, Alden McCullough.

Steve will be remembered for his steadfast devotion to family, his service to his country, and his lifelong commitment to community and friendship.

Visitation will be at Gallaway and Crane Funeral Home, 101 S. Finley Ave, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 on Friday, November 21, 2025 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Basking Ridge on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Steve’s memory to the Basking Ridge Fire Company (brfco.com/donate) where he was so proud that his son and grandson volunteer, or to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org/donate) to support veteran causes.