Hazel Bell Coney

Hazel Bell Coney (Collins) was born July 16, 1926 to the late Rachel and Bennie Collins in Arcola, Mississippi. She was affectionately called “Little Hazel” by her family as she was named after her Aunt Hazel. In the 1930s, Hazel moved with her parents and her brother James to pursue opportunities, education and a better life in Detroit.

In 1946, Hazel met the love of her life Dennis Coney. The story goes…Dennis saw Hazel’s picture when he spent time with her brother James Collins in the Navy during WWII. He declared that he would marry her when he was discharged from the Navy, and on June 14, 1947 they were married. Hazel and Dennis would go on to raise two children together, Frenchie and Cheryl and spent the next 40 years together until his passing in 1987.

Hazel was a beautiful woman inside and out, and she had an ever-present independent spirit. She had an incredible career spanning over 40 years in Book Binding at the Burkhart Company and Heitman Garand. She worked hard and enjoyed travel, experiences, and stayed “dressed to impress”. Hazel Coney was certainly one of the sharpest dressed women you ever wanted to meet…even wearing high heels walking in Niagara Falls. Travel was something that she truly enjoyed and she filled her passport with experiences spanning across the United States, Caribbean, Canada, Africa, Asia and Europe. She really enjoyed cruises, bus trips, and always had great luck at any casino.

Hazel was a member of Sacred Heart Church in Detroit and served faithfully for over 70 years. She was active in the church as a member of the Altar Society and other fellowship organizations. After her retirement spent time volunteering and supporting her community, receiving the Advocacy Award from the Citizens for Better Care organization. In her later years, Hazel attended Line Dance classes and Computer classes to stay active.

Family has always been an anchor for Hazel. A loving daughter, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend, there are so many lives that have been touched by her spirit. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of so many.

Hazel gained her angel wings on September 16, 2024. She will be in the loving arms of God and dancing in heaven with so many that have gone before her including her parents Bennie and Rachel Collins, brother James Collins, and son Frenchie Collins. She leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter Cheryl Smith, grandchildren Carlos Collins (Brenda), Dion Collins, and Chrishonda Smith (Quinton). Great grandchildren Kacey Collins, Cameron Collins, Kailah Collins, Elisha Collins, Psalmist Collins, and Nylah Croom along with a host of family, loved ones, and friends.

We love her and we will miss her, but we know she is home safe in the arms of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The Lord above has heard her prayer and prepared a room where she can rest from all the toils and trials of this world. Rest well dear Hazel.

Floral tributes can be sent to Harry J. Will Funeral Home 37000 Six Mile Rd. Livonia, MI 48152