Michael Haley

Michael Haley, age 38, the cherished son of the late Kristine and Ken Haley, passed away on October 21, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee, just five days after celebrating his birthday. Born on October 16, 1987, Michael brought joy and light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Michael graduated from Clinton High School and spent his life surrounded by the love and dedication of his family and caregivers. Despite facing significant physical and mental challenges from age 4 months, when he was stricken by meningitis, Michael’s spirit remained unshakably joyful. He was always smiling—his happiness radiated through every room he entered and left a lasting impression on those around him.

He found immense joy in adaptive sports, especially water-skiing and snow-skiing. Whether it was being out on the lake or gliding down snowy slopes, Michael embraced every opportunity to be active and engaged with the world around him. He also delighted in simple pleasures: spinning toys that danced with motion and music, outings with his aides and caregivers, meals at his favorite restaurants, and sipping a cup of coffee or a glass of iced tea—always unsweetened.

One of Michael’s greatest joys was being at home with his parents. He adored spending time with his Mom and Dad. Their love for him was unwavering and profound. His beloved Barney, the purple dinosaur stuffed animal, was never far from reach; his parents kept a steady supply on hand to ensure that Barney was always there to comfort him. Kris and Ken devoted their lives to giving Michael the very best life possible and, in doing so, showed us all what true love and devotion looks like.

Despite being nonverbal, Michael’s ability to communicate transcended words. Through his eyes, gestures, facial expressions—and most memorably, his radiant smile—he shared his needs, emotions, and boundless love. He gave the best hugs imaginable—pure expressions of affection that left hearts full. Those who knew Michael saw not what he couldn’t do but what he could: he could laugh with abandon, love without condition, and inspire without speaking a word.

His presence offered invaluable lessons to all who knew him. He taught patience, kindness, gratitude, and perspective. He reminded us that life’s true value lies not in accomplishments or accolades but in the depth of our connections and the purity of our love. Michael showed us how to find beauty amid adversity—to see past limitations and discover joy in the smallest moments. The family is very grateful to the many aides who assisted with Michael and his care over the years, helping Michael's parents ensure that Michael's life was happy, full, and loving. His aides were earth-angels, quite simply they made Michael's life infinitely better. His family is forever grateful for their presence in Michael's life and for their devotion.

Michael’s passing follows closely after that of his father, Ken Haley, who died in November 2024. Just three days after Michael left this world, his mother, Kris Haley, joined him on October 24, 2025—a testament to their inseparable bond. Michael is reunited again with his Dad and his Mom. The circle is unbroken, hallelujah!

Michael is lovingly remembered by his Aunt Lisa and Uncle Greg King; a cousin, Amanda Bell, who was more like a sister to him; Amanda’s children—Carolina, Piper, and Paxton—who brought joy into Michael’s life; Aunts Kathy Goldstein, Debbie Haley, Sharon Haley; Uncle Darryl Haley; as well as many cousins from both the Haley and King families. Michael was pre-deceased by his Uncles Doug Haley and Barry Goldstein. Their lives were all enriched by Michael’s presence in countless ways.

Michael was his family’s rainbow—a beacon of light through every storm. In honoring his memory, may we all strive to see the beauty beyond the clouds and remember the lessons he gave us: to love deeply, live joyfully, and cherish every moment.

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him. A Celebration of Life/Memorial Service will be held on December 6, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Click Funeral Home, 9020 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37923. This is a joint service for Michael and for his Mom, Kris Haley.

Donations in Michael's memory may be made to SPARC TN, an east Tennessee organization that sponsors adaptive sports opportunities for the differently abled. Michael loved their adaptive water skiing programs: https://www.sparctn.org/checkout/donatedonatePageId=54aaf764e4b0a068cec9e6fa

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