Wife's devastating act after death of former NHL player at 31
The wife of former NHL player Jimmy Hayes has posted a devastating message to social media after his sudden death at 31.
The former Boston Bruins and Team USA winger died on Monday, leaving the hockey world shattered.
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The 31-year-old, who also had stints at the Chicago Blackhawks, Florida Panthers and New Jersey Devils, was found dead at his home.
No cause of death was given, but the Boston Globe reported that the death was not being considered suspicious.
Hayes' wife Kristen has since posted a heartbreaking note on Instagram, paying tribute to her late husband.
“My angel I love you so much,” she wrote with a photo of Hayes and their two sons, two-year-old Beau and three-month-old Mac.
“I miss you. I don’t know how I’m going to do life without you.
"You should be here. This isn’t fair.”
Hockey world in mourning after Jimmy Hayes' death
Kristen revealed Hayes and family had been celebrating Beau's birthday over the weekend.
"The Boston Bruins are heartbroken by the passing of Dorchester native and former Bruin Jimmy Hayes," the Bruins said in a statement.
"Our thoughts are with his wife Kristen, his sons Beau and Mac, and the entire Hayes family during this very difficult time."
The Devils also paid tribute to Hayes in a statement posted on Twitter.
"His infectious personality and easygoing nature were contagious to all who spent time with him," the Devils wrote.
"He had a tremendous ability to make everyone feel welcome. You will be missed, Jimmy."
Hayes represented the United States at the 2014 World Championships.
He scored 109 points in 334 games during seven seasons in the NHL.
His last season in the NHL was 2017-2018.
Hayes last played professionally in 2018-19 for the Wilkes-Barrie/Scranton Penguins - the AHL affiliate of Pittsburgh.
I am so, so sorry to hear about Jimmy Hayes. Believe me when I say he lit up every locker room he entered (as well as any silly marketing project we ever asked of him). Keep his loved ones in your thoughts.
— Sarah Baicker (@sbbaicker) August 23, 2021
Completely lost for words. Jimmy Hayes was one of the best dudes ever. My thoughts are with his wife, two boys and the entire Hayes family. A true legend in every aspect of the world who will be very, very missed.
— Mike Grinnell (@MikeGrinnell_) August 23, 2021
Shocking to hear about Jimmy Hayes' death. I didn't cover him long, but I remember he had a big personality and was really well-liked in the Blackhawks room. Just 31. Man.
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) August 23, 2021
Readers seeking support and information can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
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