Visiting Sunday, December 28, 2025, from 2 PM – 7 PM at Sacred Hearts – St. Stephen Church, 125 Summit Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Mass of Christian Burial Monday, December 29, 2025 at 9:45 AM at Sacred Hearts – St. Stephen Church, 125 Summit Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Burial to follow at Green Wood Cemetery, 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232
For more information or questions regarding services and locations please call Scotto Funeral Home at 718-875-2515
Michelle Theresa Hess passed away on Sunday, December 21, with her mom and sister by her side.
Born in Westwood, NJ, to Michael and Sarah (Mullins) Hess, Michelle attended Immaculate Heart Academy, Wake Forest University, and George Mason School of Law, graduating cum laude as a member of the Federal Circuit Bar Journal. After graduation, Michelle’s impressive legal career began with a clerkship for the Honorable Dennis J. Smith of the Fairfax County Circuit Court. She practiced with the law firm Holland & Knight and served as President of the Fairfax Bar Young Lawyers Board, before joining Lantern Community Services, where she served as Chief Compliance Officer.
Michelle prided herself on being funny – she really had a gift for making everyone around her laugh. She spent several years sharing her skills as a member of various Improv troops at the Magnet Theater. She loved attending concerts, beach days with her mom, sister and friends, cheering on the NY Liberty, writing, cooking, good books, and Law & Order marathons. Michelle was also an expert at friendship and creating connections. At every phase of her life, her wit, charm and humor naturally brought people into her loyal and constant care.
Michelle is survived by her loving mother, Sarah; devoted sister Jenn; aunts, Eileen (Jim) and Maureen; and many cousins, including Colleen Amann (Pete); Fred Hess (Lisa) and Chris Hess (Ally.) In addition to family, Michelle had an amazing network of friends, with friendships spanning more than 30 years. So many people loved Michelle because she loved them so well. Her family is beyond grateful for all the support that her friends provided over these past few years. Their care and support truly helped carry everyone through these very difficult times.
Michelle was pre-deceased by her father, Michael, and cousin Stephen Hess.
Friends have established a GoFundMe to help the family defray final costs, and any leftover funds will be donated to The Pink Agenda, a cause near to Michelle’s heart. https://www.gofundme.com/f/michelle-hess
Such a beautiful and smart young lady who went to join her father in heaven at such an early age. Her devoted mother and sainted sister have totally been there for her through this very heartbreaking time. She will be extremely missed. May God bless her on her journey to heaven.
With love and prayers,
Patricia Bolleia and family
Jason Osborn once wrote “You’re not a LEADER if your absence feels like a relief.” Michelle demonstrated and modelled leadership. I cannot speak for everyone but from the feedback and sentiments expressed I am confident that no one felt a relief. To be sure, Michelle’s leadership inspired, supported, and encouraged many. I personally benefitted from her support and counsel. Our hearts are heavy, but we are comforted to have shared her memory and to know she is no longer in pain. SIEP.
Such a pure sprit and loving person…I never met anyone who was so direct and humble at the same time, very soft spoken but yet so passionate about the things she loved. you will be celebrated and remembered thank you for everything!!!!
Your Lantern Family.
My Dearest Michelle,
You’re such a beautiful angel. Your leadership and passion for helping others is impeccable. I’m thankful for our time together. You’re an inspiration to me. Thank you to your family for sharing you, with the world. I will miss hearing you say, how’s my girl?! I will miss you forever and always. Rest peacefully.
Much Love,
Natasha L.