Governor's Chief of Staff, Mike Haydon, Has Died

Governor Steve Beshear's office has confirmed that Beshear's Chief of Staff, Mike Haydon, has died. A cause of death wasn't immediately available.Haydon was the former mayor of Springfield, and was appointed as Beshear's Chief of Staff in 2010, succeeding now-auditor Adam Edelen. In apress release sent out at the time, the governor's office touted Haydon's more than 30 years in public service. Haydon served as chief of staff for House Majority Floor Leader Rocky Adkins, was the deputy secretary of the Governor's Executive Cabinet under former Governor Paul Patton, secretary of the Revenue Cabinet and commissioner of the Department of Property Valuation.  “Mike knows every corner of this state, and he has dedicated his life to public service,” said Gov. Beshear. “He brings a breadth of knowledge and depth of understanding about this state’s challenges that few can match, and I am confident in his ability to serve my office and the people of Kentucky in this critical position.”Governor Beshear's office issued the following statement: Jane and I are shocked and devastated by the sudden death of my chief of staff and good friend, Mike Haydon. Mike’s deep experience in state and local government and his vast knowledge of the issues that really matter to the people of this state made him an invaluable leader in our administration and a strong advocate for local governments.  Jane and I will always be grateful for his dedication, counsel, knowledge and sense of humor.  We have not only lost a man who dedicated his life to improving the future for Kentuckians; we have also lost one of our best friends. But the pain of our loss pales in comparison to that of his wife, Lisa, and their three children, Blair, Kate and Ben, as well as the many members of his extended family. Mike was a dedicated husband and father, and he was never happier than when he was with his family. We grieve with them now, and are praying for them.