With sadness, Life Pacific University shares that beloved pastor and author Dr. Jack W. Hayford has gone to be with the Lord. He entered eternal glory on January 8, 2023, at 88. As a Former president of The Foursquare Church, Pastor Jack Hayford is considered one of the most influential Foursquare figures since Founder Aimee Semple McPherson. His influence extended nationwide and internationally through his writing, speaking, songwriting, and broadcast ministries.
Dr. Jack was the Dean of Students and later served as the fourth president (1977- 1982) of Life Pacific University. During this time, Life achieved ABHE accreditation (1980.) An alumnus and long-time supporter of the college, his extensive contribution to the training and development of spiritual leaders is profound.
He was the founding pastor of The Church on the Way in Van Nuys, California, where he served as senior pastor for over three decades. During his time there, the church mushroomed from fewer than 20 people to more than 12,000 members. That growth marked it as a pioneer in the megachurch movement and, at the time, ranked it as the largest congregation in The Foursquare Church. He also authored more than 50 books and composed 600 hymns and choruses. Hayford’s kingdom work will continue to impact the world through the lives he touched, Life Pacific University, The Kings University, and resources through Jack Hayford Ministries.
Pastor Jack was preceded in death by his wife of more than 60 years, Anna Hayford. She passed on March 8, 2017. Hayford leaves behind four children, 11 grandchildren, a growing number of great-grandchildren, and his second wife, Valarie.
We give thanks for his life and legacy. The University honored Pastor Jack with the remix of his original song, the 1978 hymn Majesty rated as one of the top 100 contemporary hymns worldwide. He was thrilled to hear it. “Majesty” will be performed live in tribute by LPU staff and students at Tent Revival on Friday night, February 10.
Read more about the life and legacy of Pastor Jack Hayford here.
Celebration of Life Service Details:
Public Viewing – Tuesday, February 14, 2023 – 4 pm until 8 pm
Forest Lawn Memorial Park—Hollywood Hills
6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Memorial Service – Saturday, February 18, 2023 – 1 pm
Shepherd Church
19700 Rinaldi St., Porter Ranch, CA 91326
This service will be live-streamed and available at this website: www.tcotw.org
