Shirley May (Martin) Hazel

SHIRLEY MAY MARTIN HAZEL, age 86, of Roxboro, NC passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on Saturday evening, March 18, 2023.

Born August 12, 1936 in Denniston, Virginia, Shirley was the daughter of the late James Kermit and Edna Louise Stewart Martin.  She was preceded in death by a brother, Fuller Martin, and sister, Virginia “Tissy” Martin Garst.

Shirley is survived by her beloved husband of 61 years, Ronald Hazel, two sons, Jay Hazel (Kim) of Roxboro, Rodney Hazel (Lisa) of Greensboro, NC; six grandchildren: Caroline and Kenley Hazel of Roxboro, Kirby Hazel Jethro (Bennett) of Durham, Spencer Hazel of Greensboro, NC, Morgan and Parker Hazel of Charlotte, NC, two brothers, Johnny Martin, Otis Martin (Musette) of Roxboro, three sisters, Sue Martin of Marietta, Ga, Linda Epps of Chesterfield, VA, and Peggy McGlohon (Reeves) of Charlotte, NC.

Shirley had a servant’s heart as reflected by her 64 years of service at Person Memorial Hospital where she began her career as a nurses’ assistant.  She held roles in multiple departments during her tenure.  Many would say the hospital was her life.  She was known to be “a ray of sunshine at PMH and always had a smile and a kind word for everyone.”  Her career culminated with the naming of a specialty clinic “The Hazel Clinic” dedicated in her honor upon retirement in 2020.

Shirley loved her family and especially her grandchildren, who knew her better as “Pete.” She was always happy to share a “grand” story with anyone who would listen.

A member of Clement Baptist Church for 60 years, Shirley served on various committees, most recently as a Sunday school leader of the Senior ladies’ class. She could be seen regularly in the Roseville and Bushy Fork communities on her daily 3-mile walk or cheering at a ballgame of any sport. She spent an equal amount of time visiting those in need and extending a helping hand along with offering encouragement.

Shirley was a member of the Sappony tribe, and grew up in the High Plains community, where she graduated from the High Plains Indian School. She was proud of her heritage and was a charter member of the Sappony Tribal Council, serving as a family representative from 1984 until 2016. She was a huge supporter of the annual Sappony Indian Youth Camp, and made sure all her grandchildren attended and took the opportunity to learn more about their ancestry.

Shirley was a woman of faith who truly valued her family and friends.  She dedicated her entire life to helping others in need.  With an encouraging message or simple smile, she will always be remembered as a “ray of sunshine.” 

Celebration of Life services will be conducted at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, March 26, 2023 at Roxboro Baptist Church with Pastor Glen Warren and Dr. DuPre Sanders officiating.  The family will receive friends and guests for one hour prior to the service in the Roxboro Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.  At the conclusion of the service a continued visitation and reception will follow in the Clement Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Clement Baptist Church, 8480 Burlington Road, Hurdle Mills, NC 27541.

 Arrangements are by Strickland and Jones Memorial Funeral Services, 1810 Durham Road, Roxboro, NC 27573.  Online condolences may be made at stricklandandjonesfs.com.

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