Edna V. Hazel

Edna Violet (Saboe) Hazel, a vibrant spirit and beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, at the age of 93, surrounded by her loving family at Maplewood Assisted Memory Care in Cuyahoga Falls. Born on April 15, 1931, in Hemlock, Ohio, to Alex Saboe and Julia (Hornyak) Saboe-Lewis, Edna lived a life rich in love, laughter, and adventure.

For 65 years, Edna called Rootstown home, where she raised her family and created countless cherished memories. She is survived by her devoted daughters, Jerrie Lynn (Joe) Henline of Charleston, SC, and Allie (Charlie) Braham, along with her treasured grandchildren, Joshua (Emily) Henline and Jessie Henline, and her three great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Harper, and Olive Henline. Edna also leaves behind her beloved sister, Kathryn Kissel, sisters-in-law Joanne Saboe and Jennilee Hazel, and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Edna was preceded in death by her cherished husband of 57 years, Jerry Hazel, her parents, stepfather Norman Lewis, and her siblings and their spouses: Elizabeth (Mel) Abeid, Julia (George) Colton, John (Carol) Saboe, Joe Saboe, and Normagene Rhinehart, as well as her brother-in-law, Lavern Kissel.

A proud graduate of Windham High School, Edna dedicated over four decades of her life to her career working at Oak Rubber Co., Ravenna Arsenal, and retiring from Norton Co. (Saint-Gobain) after 22 years. Known for her selflessness, she always chose to work the third shift, allowing her to devote her days to her family and passions. For 25 years, she also shared her talent as a cake decorator, delighting many with her sweet creations.

Edna was a woman of many remarkable traits—kind, generous, sassy, and fearless. She was an effortless hostess who loved her large family and was known for baking the best pies in town. Her infectious laughter could light up any room, and her adventurous spirit kept her in constant motion. Whether it was riding her bike, playing cards, or hiking, Edna embraced life with boundless energy and enthusiasm. A true daredevil, she enjoyed motorcycling, camping, and traveling, always eager to experience new things.

Her love for the beach and collecting seashells brought her joy, and she took great pride in her Hungarian heritage, especially when cooking her famous Chicken Paprikash. Edna was also a talented quilter, wallpaperer, and embroiderer, proving that there was nothing she couldn’t do.A devoted member of the First United Methodist Church of Ravenna for 75 years, Edna’s strong faith was a guiding light in her life. Her limitless energy and zest for life inspired all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Maplewood for their exceptional care, especially Kate, Megan, Heather, Taylor, Selena, Paige, Jamie, and Mariah. They also thank Crossroads Hospice for their compassionate support during Edna’s final days.

Edna Violet Hazel was truly one of a kind, affectionately known as “our little ladybug.” Her legacy of love, laughter, and adventure will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Family will receive friends at the Wood-Kortright-Borkoski Funeral Home, 703 E. Main St., Ravenna, Ohio, on Saturday, March 22, from 11am until the funeral service, officiated by Pastor Gary Beck, beginning at 1pm. Private interment will take place at Grandview Memorial Park.

Condolences and memories can be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com