Michelle R. Hayes

Michelle (Cook) Hayes, 55, of Phoenix, New York, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by friends and family, on Wednesday, July 15th, 2026, after a long and courageous
battle with cancer. 

Born in Syracuse, New York on January 2, 1971, Michelle was many things to many people: first and foremost, a wife, mother, and grandmother. She is remembered by many for her exceptionally strong will, forthrightness, humor, generosity, and passion for sports - especially wrestling. She was generous with her time, her thoughts, and would always lend a hand for a good cause. She seemed happiest alongside a wrestling mat on Saturdays, or cheering on her beloved New York Giants on Sundays. She will be dearly missed by many. 

Michelle will live on through her husband Jack; her children, Kevin (Melissa) Cook, Jack (Saorise) Hayes, Austyn (Elizabeth) Hayes, and Alexis (Zachary Combs) Hayes; her many grandchildren; her brother Daniel Cook, her brother John Witteman, and her sister Tracy (Cook) Robinson; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews; as well as cousins and family members in Italy. She is predeceased by her father Angelo Cantonetti, and her mother Betty Jean (Cook) Bengar. 

In lieu of flowers, please make gifts in Michelle’s honor to the Phoenix Wrestling program, or the American Cancer Society. 

Michelle’s life will be celebrated with friends and family by the river on Sunday, July 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM, at 71 Hayes Drive, Phoenix, NY, 13135.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michelle R. Hayes, please visit our floral store.