SANDY J. HAYES, JR.

Sandy John Hayes Jr. was born in Harlem, New York to the proud parents of Sandy J. Hayes Sr. and Jeanette T. Hayes. He was the first of their three children.

The family moved to Hollis, Queens in the early 1960’s where his other two siblings Douglas and Gail Hayes would be born. Sandy attended St. Pascal’s Baylon Elementary and graduated from Rice High School. While in school he developed a passion for basketball. You could always find him on a basketball court, playing in a league, refereeing or coaching a team. His love for and dedication to the game were evident to all who watched him play. Sandy’s talent was undeniable and made him a “playground legend” earning him the nickname “Magic”.

Sandy played in many leagues such as Old Style and the Utopia Classic, where he mentored high school students, some of whom went on to play at Division I Colleges and transition into the NBA.  As a coach, he won an AAU Division I super regional 17U championship.  

Sandy attended Baruch College and eventually decided to start his career early. He began working for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) where he dedicated over 20 years of service.

On August 31, 1997 Sandy married Tammy Nash, and together they built a life for themselves in Central Islip, NY.  From his first marriage, Sandy had his daughter, Ylana Hayes. From his union with Tammy, they welcomed a son, Brandon Hayes to whom Sandy was able to pass down his love for basketball.

Sandy will be deeply missed by his family, friends and the basketball community he so profoundly impacted. His legacy as a dedicated coach and mentor will continue to inspire and guide generations. He leaves to mourn his passing, his children, Brandon Hayes and Ylana Holtz (Omari); his brother, Douglas Hayes (Kisha); his grandchildren, Jaxson and Yara; his uncle, Johnny Pinckney; his mother-in-law, Arnita Nash; his brothers-in-law, Conard Faines and Gerard Nash; and a host of cousins and friends.

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