Hazel Freuler (93) was surrounded by her family as she peacefully passed away to her heavenly home on October 20, 2023.  A beautiful red Cardinal appeared in the branches of a Magnolia tree outside her room to accompany her on her journey.

A 1:00 pm graveside service will be held Saturday, October 28, 2023 at Greenwood Cemetery 1298 Peach Street in Tarboro, NC with the Pastor Jesse Blalock presiding.

Family will see visitors at the graveside prior to the start of the service.

Hazel, affectionally referred to as, "The Hazel" was a devoted and loving mother, Nanny, Nana, sister and friend.  She never met a stranger and had a smile and pleasant word for everyone she met.  Hazel was usually hoping that would turn into a conversation.  She loved to remind people, "I'm a talker." Once started, a conversation could go forward with either, "Now, I'm 93 years old..." or "I am an opinionated person…" after which she would impart some wisdom solicited or not, but always relevant and from a loving heart with the goal of helping others on their own path.

She is survived by her daughters Angela, Sandra (Dennis) and Paula (Mike) grandchildren Melanie, Danielle (Jeff), Will, Elizabeth (Matthew), Anna Clay and Stewart, great-grandchildren, Brock (Bri), Jacob, Tate, Danica, Aubrey, Norah, Sterling, her namesake Hazel, and Marigold; brother Jerry; nieces, nephews, and special friends.

Hazel is preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Dan; a son, Danny; daughter-in-law Judy; a brother TH; parents Tommy and Maggie and a special sister-in-law, Janice.

Hazel worked with Carolina Telephone and Telegraph for 39 years (1952-1991) and had many happy stories of friends and engineers.  In early retirement she enjoyed twelve years of volunteer work at the Tarboro Hospital and taking senior trips with Dan and their friends. During summers she could be found participating in senior swimming.  She loved reading and challenging herself with puzzles and was a talented baker and cook. She loved hosting meals and her spaghetti, pastry, ham, pork roast, cornbread and baking are legendary-as well as her Christmas confections.

Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially when it involved good food, cook-outs, and celebration.  What joy she found in calling each family member on their birthday with a loud, personal rendition of "happy birthday to you."  She treasured phone calls with family and friends which always ended with her signature too-da-loo-hoo farewell.

Hazel had a strong Christian faith and loved a good sermon especially Danny's (her son) and The Hazel was known to deliver a few sermons herself!

During her declining health she took comfort in knowing, "my God will take care of me." Sharp in mind and wit even in the last days, Hazel knew her life was well-lived and that she was fiercely loved. Well done good and faithful servant, Too-da-loo-hoo.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Hospital, a charity Hazel supported throughout her life.