With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved son, Justin Michael Hayes, who left us too soon. Justin, who was 36 years old, passed away on [date], leaving a deep and lasting void in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. His life, though cut short, was one filled with love, kindness, and a passionate pursuit of his dreams.
He is survived by a family who will forever cherish his memory and a community that will never forget his infectious spirit. Justin was born to Stanley Hayes Jr. (Bub) and Jeanne Hayes. He grew up in Dolgeville, NY, where he attended Dolgeville Central School, graduating in 2006. From a young age, Justin was known for his enthusiasm, energy, and a remarkable ability to connect with everyone he met. His outgoing nature, genuine heart, and unwavering loyalty to his friends made him a beloved figure to those who had the privilege of knowing him.
A passionate sports enthusiast, Justin was especially known for his love of basketball. His friends affectionately nicknamed him “Blaze” for his quickness and agility on the court, a testament to both his skill and his fierce competitive spirit. Whether he was playing for fun or in a more serious setting, Justin’s athleticism and energy were always at the forefront. His love of sports went beyond basketball, and he continued to enjoy staying active throughout his life, but basketball always held a special place in his heart.
Growing up, Justin was also deeply immersed in music, a passion that would continue to be a driving force in his life. His ability to appreciate and create music was something that connected him to others in a way few things could. Music was not just a hobby for Justin; it was a way of expressing himself and sharing his soul with the world. He used this gift to bring people together, whether through sharing his favorite songs or introducing friends to new artists. Justin was a man of many talents and dreams, and his entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly in all that he did.
He was the CEO and founder of Never Fearing Heights (NFH), a company he started on June 1, 2010. His vision for NFH was to inspire others to pursue their passions without fear of failure, a message that Justin lived by every day. He encouraged those around him to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may have seemed. His drive and determination led him to launch J.N.A. Games, where he worked tirelessly to build a successful business that reflected his passion for gaming and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Justin also worked at GameStop in Herkimer, where he held the title of Key Holder. This job was one that brought him immense joy, as it allowed him to interact with customers and share his knowledge and love for gaming. His colleagues describe him as a dedicated worker, always ready with a smile and a helpful word, and his enthusiasm for gaming was contagious to everyone around him. Justin had a special gift for bringing people together, whether through his work at GameStop, his eBay business, or his personal connections.
He was a natural salesman, always finding new ways to make his customers feel valued and appreciated. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Justin’s true legacy lies in the way he loved and cared for those closest to him. He was a devoted fiancé to Briana Marie Lewis, with whom he shared a deep and loving relationship. Together, they built a life filled with shared memories, laughter, and dreams for the future. Justin was also a dedicated father to his four children: Ashen, Parker, Brantley Michael, and Cason Charles Hayes.
He adored his children with all his heart, and his love for them was evident in every moment they spent together. Justin’s family meant the world to him, and he did everything in his power to be a loving father and role model for his kids. Justin’s love and loyalty extended to his brother, Stanley Hayes III, who was not only his sibling but his best friend. The bond they shared was unbreakable, and Stanley was often by Justin’s side, offering support, laughter, and companionship.
Justin’s extended family was equally important to him. He was cherished by his aunts and uncles, including Dennis, Scott, and Cheryl Lamphere; Linda Lamphere; Lee and Barb Lamphere; Glenn Jr. and Jean Lamphere; and many others. His nieces and nephews, including Diego, Hiram, Giovanni, and Andre Hayes, were a source of immense pride and joy for him, and he was a constant presence in their lives. Justin was also deeply connected to his grandparents, including his grandfather Stanley Hayes Sr., who was an integral part of his life.
His grandmother Annabelle Hayes, who doted on him with love and affection, was another guiding force in his world. While Justin was predeceased by his uncle Wayne Lamphere, and his grandparents Glenn Sr. and Jean Lamphere, their memory lived on in his heart, as did the memory of his best furry friend Chi-Chi, who was always by his side. To all who knew him, Justin was a shining example of what it means to be a friend, a family member, and a person who lived life to the fullest.
His unwavering loyalty, his deep love for others, and his infectious personality were qualities that will be forever cherished. He had a unique ability to make those around him feel seen and heard, and he will be remembered as someone who always put others first, offering a helping hand, a kind word, or a generous gesture whenever it was needed. Justin’s passing leaves an unfillable void, but his legacy will live on through the love and memories he leaves behind.
His family and friends take comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to guide them in the days and years to come. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Chapman-Moser Funeral Home. A graveside service will be announced in the spring, with a date, time, and location to be shared. Following the interment, a celebration of life will be held in honor of Justin’s memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to help support the future expenses of Justin’s children.
Justin Michael Hayes will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kindness, love, and friendship have left an indelible mark on the world, and his memory will forever be treasured by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. Rest in peace, Justin. Your legacy of love and joy will live on in the hearts of those who knew you.
