Hayley McNeff, a well-known bodybuilder and fitness influencer from Massachusetts, died on Aug. 8 at the age of 37.
According to an obituary published in Boston.com, her death was described as “unexpected but peaceful.”
McNeff grew up in Concord, Massachusetts, and graduated from Concord-Carlisle High School and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Throughout her life, she was dedicated to sports. As a child and teen, she took part in equestrian events, board diving, and skiing. Later, she found her passion in bodybuilding.
She became a decorated competitor, winning state titles in Maryland and Delaware. McNeff was also featured in the 2005 documentary Raising the Bar, which looked at the world of competitive bodybuilding.
After retiring from competition, McNeff pursued a graduate degree in psychology.
Her obituary highlighted her “quick wit” and “constant sense of humor,” noting that she had a gift for making people laugh and feel welcome. It also said, “Her energy and determination was a constant in her life and she always accomplished what she set out to achieve. She treasured her friendships and nurtured strong, lasting relationships with those who knew her best.”
Following her death, fellow bodybuilder Dave Palumbo posted a tribute on Instagram. “I’m sad to hear of the passing of former woman bodybuilder,” he wrote. “She left us way too soon. She was a good soul, super intelligent and had tremendous potential as a bodybuilder.”
McNeff’s family announced that a visitation will be held in Wellesley, Massachusetts, on Saturday, Aug. 16. In her memory, they ask that donations be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
