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Following influencer and champion bodybuilder Hayley McNeff’s sudden death at 37, her family is speaking outIn an exclusive statement to PEOPLE, McNeff’s father writes, “Hayley was like a beam of light in this world” McNeff was a decorated athlete, counting bodybuilding state titles in Maryland and Delaware among her achievements
The family of influencer and champion bodybuilder Hayley McNeff is speaking out after her sudden death.
“Hayley was like a beam of light in this world. She had boundless energy and was very determined to achieve whatever she set out to do,” Hayley’s father Dave tells PEOPLE in an exclusive statement. “She set her sights on bodybuilding and fitness and achieved the highest success that sector offered. She loved us and we love Hayley very much, we miss her madly.”
The 37-year-old bodybuilder died at her home in Sudbury, Mass., on Aug. 8, her family confirmed to PEOPLE.
According to an official obituary published in local outlet Boston.com on Aug. 12, the death of the lifelong athlete was “unexpected but peaceful.”
McNeff was born and raised in Concord, Mass., where she graduated from Concord-Carlisle High School and went off to the University of Massachusetts Amherst for her bachelor’s degree, per her obituary. In addition to bodybuilding, which she picked up as an adult, McNeff excelled at equestrian, board diving and skiing.
Hayley McNeff.
Hayley McNeff/Instagram
McNeff’s obituary says she was a decorated bodybuilder — counting state titles in Maryland and Delaware among her achievements — and she was featured in the 2005 documentary Raising the Bar, which explores the world of competitive bodybuilding.
After stepping away from the sport later in life, she pursued a graduate degree in psychology.
Per McNeff’s obituary, the late bodybuilding champion will be remembered for her “quick wit” and “constant sense of humor.”
Hayley McNeff.
Hayley McNeff/Instagram
“She had a gift for making those around her laugh and feel welcomed,” the obituary continues. “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. Hayley will be deeply missed by her parents, siblings, extended family, and friends.”
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