Staten Island funeral home owner dies suddenly at home

Michael Heaney, who ran the family business for over 40 years, was remembered as a 'gentle person' and 'epitome of professionalism'.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 5:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Michael Heaney, the 64-year-old owner of a Staten Island funeral home that he had run for over four decades, passed away suddenly in his New Dorp home. Heaney had dedicated his career to the funeral business in his hometown borough, working his way up to become the owner of Michael P. Heaney Funeral Services Inc. in 1983. He was known for his compassion, professionalism, and dedication to the community.

Why it matters

Heaney's sudden passing marks the end of an era for the funeral home he had run for over 40 years on Staten Island. As a fixture in the local funeral service industry, his death will be felt by the many families he had served with care and compassion over the decades.

The details

Heaney was found dead in his New Dorp home on January 17 after family members became concerned when he did not return calls and messages. He had worked in the funeral business since earning his license in 1981, eventually founding his own funeral home in 1983 and running it with his siblings. Heaney was known for his professionalism, compassion, and dedication to the families he served, often being on call 24/7.

  • Heaney passed away on January 17, 2026.
  • Heaney's funeral was held on January 23, 2026 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church in New Dorp.

The players

Michael Heaney

The 64-year-old owner of Michael P. Heaney Funeral Services Inc. on Staten Island, who had dedicated over 40 years of his career to the funeral business in his hometown.

Danny Heaney

Michael Heaney's brother, who described him as a 'fixture in funeral service on Staten Island' whose 'whole life' was the family business.

Michele Coyne

Michael Heaney's sister, who remembered him as a 'gentle person' who was 'helpful, kind and compassionate' in serving families who suffered a loss.

John Scamardella

The owner of Matthew Funeral Home and Cremation Services, a longtime friend of Michael Heaney who praised the Heaney family's 'diligence, professionalism and dedication' in serving the local funeral homes.

Rev. Robert Dillon

The pastor of St. Patrick's R.C. Church in Richmond who officiated Michael Heaney's funeral Mass at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church in New Dorp.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He was a gentle person, so helpful, kind and compassionate whenever a family suffered a loss. He was the epitome of professionalism.”

— Michele Coyne, Michael Heaney's sister

“The Heaneys served the funeral homes with diligence, professionalism and dedication. They were on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year, including holidays. Michael P. Heaney led an exemplary life of service. His legacy will continue through his brothers and sister.”

— John Scamardella, Owner, Matthew Funeral Home and Cremation Services

The takeaway

Michael Heaney's sudden passing marks the end of an era for the Staten Island funeral home he had run with compassion and professionalism for over four decades, leaving a legacy of service to the community that will continue through his family.