Hazel Hart Beebe "Haze"

Hazel Hart Beebe, “Haze” passed away peacefully on Friday, June 10, 2022, at the age of 98, in Albany, NY.   Hazel was born in Hazleton, Pennsylvania and moved to the LaFayette/Tully ,NY area during grade school.  Hazel was thrilled with the move because her parents promised there would be trees where they were moving.  After graduating from Tully Central High School, she attended and graduated from business school.  She married her high school sweetheart, David Beebe, in 1946, the day after he returned from oversees after being stationed in the Philippines during WWII. 

Hazel, was an extraordinary mom to four children, a tribute in itself.  For the majority her life, she worked at the local elementary school as a secretary.  Then later in life as a cashier.  Hazel was a lover of books, reading the daily newspaper and learning.  She especially loved the library.  She was a volunteer at the library in Tully and LaFayette for many  years.  In 2005, Hazel moved to Delmar, NY to be closer to her children. There, the Bethlehem Library became her comfort and routine as she visited daily.  In 2017 the local newspaper featured Hazel and how the library had become her second home.  She was quoted as saying. “In the third grade I discovered the library and it has been my love ever since”.

In addition to reading Hazel enjoyed playing golf into her 90s, daily walks, watching Syracuse basketball, baking and cooking ( famous Heavenly and strawberry pies and ham loafs).  Hazel LOVED to dance, play piano ( took lessons in her 90s),  take nature trips, collect rocks, garden, and make awesome baskets.   She enjoyed traveling to visit her family.    Hazel’s close friends gave her the nickname “Polly” due to her chatty nature.

Hazel was a lovely, kind and welcoming woman who always made others feel special. She had a healthy sense of humor.  Hazel was a second mom to numerous family members and friends. She was an active member of the Apulia Methodist church and served as the church treasurer.  She was also a long time member of Eastern Stars.

Since her move to Delmar in 2005, Hazel was able to spend time nearly every day with her daughters.  Hazel touched the souls of many people who crossed her path.  The family would like to thank St. Peter’s Rehab and Nursing, for Hazel’s care at the end of her life. 

Hazel was predeceased by her husband Dave in 1986.  She was the last surviving family member and friend of her generation. She is survived by her children Michael (Jean), Mark ( Berna), Barb ( Debra ), Susan Hodom (Michael).  She is also survived by her grandchildren, Justin, Chelsea, Jacob Hodom, Nicholas Hodom and Michayla Mann and her great-granddaughter, Lilah Mann.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, August 14, 2022 1:00-2:00 at the Apulia Methodist Church:  6494 Route 80, Apulia Station, NY 13020.   A Celebration of Life will follow immediately after at Arlington Acres, 1155 Apulia Rd. LaFayette, NY 13084, where the Garrett family has given Hazel, Dave and their children never ending support and love.

In lieu of flowers, if so desired, donations can be made to the Tully Free Library 12 State Street, Tully, NY 13159 or the Bethlehem Library 451 Delaware Ave Delmar, NY 12054.

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