Gala Marie (Merseal) Haywood, of Fredericktown, Missouri, entered eternal rest on July 27, 2026, at Stockhoff Nursing Home, at the age of 75. She was born on March 6, 1951, in Bonne Terre, Missouri, to the late Francis Merseal and Patricia (Vandiver) Merseal.

Gala is survived by her sister, Paige Merseal (Foy Hodge); her nephews, Chad Summers (Toni) and Connor Summers; her nieces, Kailey Summers (Riley) and Erin Lewis (Dan); her great-nephew, Milo-James Francis Lewis; her sons, Randy Haywood (Kristen) and Larry Junior Haywood; her grandchildren, Kyle Haywood (Hannah) and Kayla Haywood; her great-grandchildren, Karson, Mason, Laiken, Kyla, and Zoey. She is also survived by many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry E. Haywood Sr.; her son, Kevin Lane; and her brothers, John Gower and Jim Gower.

Gala found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved cooking for her family, crocheting, creating arts and crafts, and spending time camping. Above all, Gala treasured the time she spent with her family. Her greatest happiness came from making memories with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those she loved. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by everyone who knew her.

Gala will be laid to rest next to her husband at Knights of Pythias Cemetery in Farmington. Share your memories and condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.