Hazel C Green

From her earliest years working on the family farm, it was clear Hazel was made of something steadfast and special. She became the first in her family to graduate from high school, paving the way for a future shaped by courage, intelligence, and unwavering drive.

Hazel met the love of her life, James Green, in their Mississippi home state and married him on August 4th, 1951. Together they built a life rooted in devotion and laughter, sharing more than 70 years of marriage. Soon after their marriage, they moved to Chicago, Illinois and were blessed with five children: Mark (Pamela), Maurice (Eula), Carl (Mary), Valerie (Vince), and Yolanda.

She believed in doing things right the first time and had an unmatched attention to detail. That same precision extended to every part of her life, from folding sheets and decorating the beds every morning so perfectly you’d think you were in a five-star hotel, to teaching her children and grandchildren that even the smallest touches can carry love, pride, and beauty.

Hazel was a woman of many talents and a quiet force of nature. She was a skillful cook, and she had an eye for cleanliness that made everything shine. Hazel could also drive a car or tractor like a pro, and she loved to talk about her family history. She treated people fair and kind, but she was no pushover and would not hesitate to put you in your place.

Though strong, she had a soft heart, especially for chocolate and her family. She was adventurous in spirit, often surprising others by hopping on roller coasters with her grandchildren or breaking out in spontaneous dance simply because she loved life and enjoyed moving to a good beat. She answered by many names, but to everyone who knew her, she was a trusted confidante whether you were young or old, her listening ear and wise words a gift she did not mind sharing.

One day, when someone knocked on her door and offered her a free home Bible study, she opened more than just her front door … she opened her heart. Her deep love for Jehovah God grew from there, and on November 25, 1973, she dedicated her life to Him, imitating Jesus Christ. After retiring early, she poured her time and love into sharing the good news of God's Kingdom as a full-time pioneer. She found joy in spreading hope and truth to anyone willing to listen.

On a peaceful evening in June, she closed her eyes in sleep, like her loving parents, her brother, William Butcher, and her husband, JD., who all preceded her in death. She leaves to cherish her memory, her beloved children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cherished relatives, her spiritual family, and countless friends.

Her life was a true testimony of what it means to live fully, love deeply, and serve devotedly. Although she will be dearly missed, Hazel laid roots so deep that generations will continue to grow strong from her love, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

Family will start to gather at the funeral home at 12:30pm on Saturday, July 5, 2025. A Memorial Service in the chapel will start promptly at 1:00 PM.