Hazel Livingston

We gather here today to celebrate and honor the life of Hazel Maud Hyacinth Livingston, known affectionately as Sweety, mama, grandma, nana, mom, Joy, Hazel Baby, and Queen Hazel. Mom was a gift from God. Her strength, warmth, and grace touched the lives of all who knew her. Hazel was born on December 21, 1935, in Kingston, Jamaica, to Wilfred and Emily. She lived a life full of love, unwavering faith, and joy. After 43 years in Delaware, Hazel was called home to be with her Lord on March 5, 2025, surrounded by a loving family and a community of friends who will deeply miss her. Throughout her 89 years, Hazel’s spirit embodies the very essence of resilience. She lived a life defined by the values her parents instilled in her: Respect, honesty, hard work, decency, sacrificial love, and a deep commitment to family. She faced more than her share of challenges throughout her life, beginning with the loss of her mother at just eight years old. She later lost her father, twin brothers, and more recently her two oldest sons. Yet even through those difficult times, Hazel remained tenacious, courageous and strong. No matter the circumstances, she lived with gratitude, always finding a way to see the light even in the darkest times. Growing up in Jamaica, Hazel developed a love for music and dance. She found joy in the rhythm of life, and her energy and enthusiasm were infectious. Whether she was singing or dancing, Hazel lived in a way that celebrated life’s beauty and the importance of living fully in each moment. In 1982, Hazel renewed her walk with Christ, grounding herself in the faith that was the constant source of strength that sustained her through life’s adversities and fueled her joy. Her faith became her guiding light and was evidenced in the way she loved and lived. Hazel’s family was the heart of her life, and her focused ministry. She was always present to celebrate every achievement, always caring, always ready with words of encouragement and wisdom or a warm embrace. Her unconditional love, dedication, and selflessness were her trademarks. She taught us the value of education, kindness, truthfulness, sacrifice, hard work, respect for authority, how to move through life with grace, to find strength in faith, and to be always thankful for the love and blessings we receive. She also taught us that true strength lies in lifting others up and banding together. Hazel’s life was a testament to what it means to live selflessly, devotedly, and purposefully, to love deeply, and to care for others with all your heart. Hazel showed us that true strength lies not only in the moments of triumph but in the quiet ways we uplift and support those around us. She was preceded in death by her late husband (Fitzy) and two eldest sons (Donald and Errol). She is survived by her children: Susan (Osbourne), Angie (Errol), Michael (Pam), Rose, Patrick, Marcia (Milton), Paulette (Everton), Tony, Karen (Dennis), and Nadine (Otis); grandchildren: Megan(Steve), Jermaine (Precious), Marlon, Richard, Dennissa, Venesia, Tameka, Danlejon (Lisa), Kerryann, George, Norman, Alecia (Jesus), Jahvaskie, Dante (Katie), Camry; 19 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren, a host of other family members, and friends who were touched by her love. Today, as we remember Hazel, do not dwell on the sadness of her passing, instead, celebrate the beautiful life she lived. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and resilience that will continue to inspire and guide us. Her memory will live on in the stories we share, the lessons we’ve learned from her, and the love that will forever surround us. Mom/Grandma, you were a blessing to all who knew you. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will never fade. You’ve left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we will carry you with us always. Rest in peace, Queen Hazel. Your love, your wisdom, and your faith will forever be a part of us

Hazel Livingston

December 21, 1935 - March 5, 2025