Hazel Virginia Philabaum

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Hazel Virginia Philabaum, who left us on August 3, 2024. She passed peacefully at home after a long struggle with cancer. Born in Weirton, WV, in 1937, she dedicated her life to the service of others, touching countless lives through her compassionate work as a nurse, parishioner at St. Cyrils, volunteer at St. Vincent de Paul’s, member of the Foster Care Review Board, and more.

Hazel spent nearly 50 years at TMC, where her caring presence was felt most profoundly in the NICU and Pediatric Special Care units. Her heart was as big as the world, embodying a rare and beautiful combination of patience, humility, love, and selflessness. She had an extraordinary ability to aid and uplift those around her, making her a cherished figure not only among her patients, their families, and her colleagues, but also within the broader community.

Her legacy extends beyond her professional life. As a devoted mother to Karen, Ralph, and Pam, a mother-in-law to Gail and Bill, and a loving grandmother to Patrick, Wyatt and Tara, she enriched our lives with her unwavering support, boundless affection, and endless patience. She had a wicked sense of humor and was the most ruthless card shark you ever met. She was also always quick with a hug and an enormous tray of cookies at Christmas.

Ever the closet social butterfly, her involvement with her parish, the LOL Club, St. Vincent’s, and her many friends from her nursing career at TMC & Maxim made her life rich with meaningful connections. The friendships she nurtured and the lives she touched are the mark of her generous spirit and her ability to make everyone feel special. The testament of her character is seen in the countless lives she touched through her charitable works; her legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Hazel did not want a funeral - just a simple mass. It will be held on Saturday, October 26th, at 10:00 am, at St. Cyril of Alexandria Roman Catholic Parish, 4725 E Pima St, Tucson, AZ 85712.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Special Olympics.