Willie Evange Hazel was born in Clearwater, South Carolina, Aiken County on April 28, 1931 to the late Norman and Marie Hazel. His parents had three children from this union. Willie was preceded in death by his two sisters, Mrs. Normanie E. Hardy and Mrs. Artie L. Jackson.

Willie married the late Daisy P. Hazel in 1952 and from their union, six children were born; Daisy Marie Wilder, Dianne H. Logan (Bernard), Angeal C. Hazel, Willie F. Hazel (deceased), Leatsie V. Matthias, and Chiquita C. Jones. Willie had two additional children; Willie Hankerson and Victory C. Swift. He had 26 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.  Also left to cherish his memory, his companion, Allie Gibbs.

Brother Willie Hazel passed away peacefully on February 26, 2021.

Willie was an honor student his freshman year at Albany State College, Albany, GA. He was also an honor student during his sophomore and junior years at Morris College, Sumter, South Carolina during the 1950's. Willie joined the United States Air Force in 1953 and worked with top brass while stationed at Langley Air Force Base. He was the light heavyweight boxing champ in the United States Air Force. Willie made history for being the Third Black employee to read gas and electric meters for Vepco in the 1970's and ultimately retired from the City of Hampton as a Drainage Maintenance Supervisor in the 1980's. He was the owner of Rental Real Estate Property.

Brother Hazel will always be remembered for his strong sense of community. The Order of Elks was a very important part of his life. He served as Past Grand Exalted Ruler, Past State President, Chaplain for Past Exalted Rulers Council #9, Esteemed Leading Knight, Chairman of Anniversary Committee, Recording Secretary for Charity Committee, and Manager of the Educational Department.

Willie loved to dance and never missed an opportunity to attend the downtown Hampton block parties and enjoyed dancing at Buckroe beach on Sundays. To all that knew him, he was friendly and will be greatly missed.

Viewing will be from 3-6 p.m., Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at the funeral home.  Funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home.  Due to COVID 19 restrictions, only 40 people will be permitted to attend the funeral service. O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.