Barbara Jean Hazel

Barbara Jean Hazel, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Louisville, Kentucky, on September 1, 2026, at the age of 92.

Barbara was born on October 17, 1933, to Frank and Thelma Hall. She was a strong, independent woman who lived her life with determination, compassion, and a heart that always had room for the people she loved.

Barbara began her career as a civil servant with the Naval Ordnance and later continued her dedicated service at Fort Knox. She was a loyal and hardworking employee who took great pride in her work and remained dedicated until her retirement.

At only 4'10", Barbara may have been small in stature, but she was undoubtedly a spitfire. She was fiercely self-reliant, independent, and never afraid to speak her mind. Yet beneath that strong exterior was a deeply caring woman with an enormous heart. No matter how independent she was, her family always knew they could count on her. Whenever someone needed help, Barbara was there. She cared for many of her family members through difficult seasons of their lives, offering not only a helping hand but also comfort, strength, and unconditional love. Being a caregiver came naturally to her.

Barbara and her husband, Tommy, built their lives around their family. Family was their pride and joy, and they worked hard to create a home where traditions could continue and loved ones could gather. Holidays were especially important, filled with big gatherings, familiar traditions, good food, laughter, and the happiness of having family together. Their greatest joy was simply being surrounded by the people they loved.

Barbara found happiness in the little things and especially enjoyed spending time with those closest to her. She loved going to brunch with her sisters and cherished the times her grandchildren would take her out to eat. When Tommy was alive, the two of them enjoyed reading together and playing poker—sharing quiet moments and plenty of friendly competition.

She was also a talented and creative woman. Barbara loved arts and crafts and could often be found hand sewing, crocheting, quilting, or needlepointing. Her artistic talents were remarkable, and her work even earned blue ribbons at the state fair. Of all the things she created, making doll clothing was one of her favorite pastimes. She took great pride in the tiny details and the beauty she could create with her hands.

Barbara also loved to go thrifting and enjoyed the excitement of finding something special. Her entrepreneurial and creative spirit was shared with her five sisters when they opened and ran a shop together called Tucky Huck Crafts. The shop was a reflection of the creativity, sisterhood, and shared memories that meant so much to Barbara.

Barbara lived a life defined by family, hard work, independence, creativity, and love. She was strong when others needed strength, caring when someone needed comfort, and always willing to show up for the people she loved. Her legacy lives on not only in the family she helped nurture, but in the traditions she helped preserve, the crafts she lovingly created, and the countless lives she touched through her generosity and care.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Barbara is preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, Thomas “Tommy” G. Hazel; parents, Frank and Thelma Waddell Hall; and five sisters.

Left to cherish her memory, Barbara is survived by her children, Scott Hazel (Lisa) and Donna Summers; four grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and close friends.