Hazel Virginia Hayes, 86, of Wilmington, died Monday, February 16, 2015, at Hermitage House after a lengthy but courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. Hazel was born July 31, 1928 in Columbus County, NC, daughter of the late Robert Peterson and Eva Blake Peterson. Her husband, Norbert Hayes, preceded her in death in 2006. Hazel worked for Jewell Strickland Auto Parts for over 20 years. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She is survived by her son, Robert Hayes (Kathy); daughter, Teresa Hayes; two grandchildren, Nicole Buffkin (Buddy), and Steven Hayes; four great-grandchildren; brother, Willis Peterson; and a sister, Mourine Carter. The family will receive friends from 700 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18, 2015, at Andrews Market Street Chapel. A funeral service will be 12:00 p.m. Thursday, February 19, 2015, at Olivet Baptist Church, with Rev. Samuel Gore and Rev. Kane McKenzie officiating. Interment will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
