Hazel Louise Colbert Callaway

Hazel Louise Colbert Callaway, 87, of Washington, GA, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Harpers Personal Care Home, with her daughters by her side.

Born on April 24, 1939, in Washington, Georgia, Hazel was a lifelong resident of her beloved hometown. She was the daughter of the late Grover Cleveland Colbert and Mamie Huff Colbert. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Stratton Maurice Callaway, with whom she shared 64 devoted years of marriage; her grandson, Jonathan Craig Gurley; and her siblings, Euerl Saxon, Beatrice Hardy, Evelyn Reese, Mary Lou Brady, Laura Hester, Annie Combs Crook.

Hazel was a devoted and long-time member of Phillips Mill Baptist Church, where she faithfully worshiped and valued the fellowship of her church family throughout her life.

Hazel was known throughout her life for her strong work ethic and unwavering dedication. She worked at Almar Manufacturing from 1960 to 1976, then at SCT Yarns from 1976 to 2001, followed by Maxway. She later continued her service with the Wilkes County Board of Education, from which she retired.

Hazel found her greatest happiness in life’s simple, everyday moments. She loved nothing more than spending a whole day shopping, taking her time, and enjoying every minute of it. Each year, she looked forward to planting her garden, tending to it with care and pride. She had a special love for cows and could often be found at the fence, feeding and petting them, happily giving each one its own name. At home, she found comfort in cooking and in quietly watching the hummingbirds gather in her yard. It was in these simple routines that Hazel’s joy truly lived, and they are the moments that those who knew and loved her will remember most.

Hazel is survived by her two daughters, Sharon Michele Callaway Gurley and her husband Greg of Augusta, and Eugenia Caroline Callaway Danner and her husband Ricky of Tignall. She was a proud grandmother to Krystal Louise Henderson of Thomson and Benjamin Maurice Danner and his wife Katlyn of Evans. Hazel’s legacy continues through her nine great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Phillips Mill Baptist Church, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m with Rev. Mark Woods officiating. Burial will take place at Carter’s Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Ricky Danner, Greg Gurley, Ben Danner, Howard Combs, Mark Howell, and Travis Armour.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Carter’s Grove Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 264, Washington, GA 30673.

Arrangements are being handled by Hopkins Funeral Home. Hazel’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their love, support, and condolences during this difficult time.

Hazel Louise Colbert Callaway will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.