Hazel T. Smith

Hazel T. Smith, 88, passed away March 6, 2021 at Carolina Coastal Hospital.  Hazel was born on May 6, 1932 to Lee & Verna Tuten of Grays, SC. For years, her birthday was celebrated on May 7 ^th , which was correct per her mother, until it was time to apply for Social Security.  She got a big surprise – a new birthday.

As a homemaker she took wonderful care of her family as well as several children in the community with whom she babysat.  Through the years, she was employed as a school bus driver with her final occupation as a driver for Jasper County Council on Aging.   She loved her family and her church.  But the greatest joy in her final years was Lady, her constant companion.

She is survived by her daughter, Sarah and son-in-law James Clemens, her sister Ellen (Quillie) Crosby and multiple nieces and nephews whom she loved as her own children.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Elton O. Smith (Jep), her parents, Lee & Verna Tuten as well as her bother, Noel Tuten.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at Phillipsville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Pine Level Baptist Roof Fund, 2009 Pine Level Church Rd, Early Branch, SC 29916.