Ray Hayhurst, senior vice president of Avison Young’s Orlando office, dies at 73

Raymond “Ray” Hayhurst, senior vice president of Avison Young’s Orlando office and member of the International Council of Shopping Centers, has passed away from cancer at the age of 73.

An Orlando resident for over 35 years, Hayhurst leaves behind a legacy that touches upon both local and out-of-state commercial real estate sectors.

Throughout his 50-year career, Hayhurst directed the sale of more than 4 million square feet of retail properties in Florida, Virginia, Georgia and North Carolina, while holding roles at real estate firms including Trammell Crow, Lat Purser & Associates, Grubb & Ellis and Cushman & Wakefield.

Greg Morrison, a principal and director at Avison Young told GrowthSpotter Hayhurst was just entering the twilight of his career.

“He was a man that had a great integrity and character, was always willing to help others and was a great influence to younger team members,” Morrison said. “We were fortunate to have him with us, and he will be missed.”

Early in his career, Hayhurst was vice president of the Atlanta Merchandise Mart and was involved in the development of Trammell Crow’s 1.5 million-square-foot Infomart in Dallas.

A DeLand native, Hayhurst attended DeLand High School and graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in business education.

He passed away Dec. 13 due to a rare form of cancer called angiosarcoma.

He is survived by his wife, Pam Carman-Hayhurst; sister, Helen Eve Vance; daughters, Alissa Hayhurst Tasler and Annie Carman Burns (husband-Kevin); son, Justin Hayhurst; and grandchildren, Riley and Cameron Burns.

John Crossman, a friend and colleague, said Hayhurst was admired by all who knew and worked with him.

“Ray was the classic gentleman. He was kind, compassionate and hardworking. A total professional and someone I’ve admired for my entire career," Crossman said in a written statement.

A ceremony honoring Hayhurst’s life will be held Thursday at 3 p.m. at Pine Ridge Church. A reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the Hayhurst family is asking to honor his memory by making a donation to the Angiosarcoma Cancer Fund.

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