Hazel Eloise Swilley, 88 of Hazen, went home to be with the Lord on June 24, 2025. She had her immediate family by her side. She was born October 24, 1936 in Carlisle, Arkansas to Ingram and Eloise Snider Smith. Hazel attended school in Carlisle and after graduation went to Henderson State Teachers College where she obtained a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Education. She married B.W. Swilley on August 22,1959. They had two children; Bryanie W. Jr. and Douglas Maston.
Hazel was a member of GFWC, the Elsie McCain Club and a member of Calvary Baptist Church for 25 years where she served in the youth ministry preparing weekly meals and was on the hospitality team. Hazel was also a school teacher and enjoyed her students. Hazel enjoyed gardening, working crossword and jigsaw puzzles, fishing, and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. She was often found watching sports of just about any kind and keeping up with current events.
Hazel is survived by her husband B.W. Swilley, her two sons: Bryanie Swilley and wife Beverly of Franklin, TN, Doug Swilley and wife Angie of Wylie, TX. Three grandchildren: Brooke, Cole and Clay Swilley; and her sister Jane Head of Keller, TX; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Elton and Maston Smith, her sister Callie V Baker, Ruth Woods, Christine Weems, granddaughter Bailey Swilley, nephew Billy Baker, great nieces Patti Carroll and Renee Mott.
Services for Hazel will be Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Calvary Baptist Church in Hazen, Arkansas, with a visitation beginning at 1:00 PM; followed by a funeral service beginning at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow the funeral service in the Hazen Cemetery.
B.W. and family, I send sympathy to each of you. Hazel and I have been friends in high school and through our adult years. I am so sorry to hear of her death and will miss her,
B.W. and family, I send sympathy to each of you. Hazel and I have been friends in high school and through our adult years. I am so sorry to hear of her death and will miss her.
Cole and Swilley family, The Burke family sends our deepest condolences to you all with the loss of Hazel. You all are in our prayers.❤️
Dear Swilley family, my heart is heavy with sorrow for your loss. I’m grateful for having known Hazel, and find comfort in knowing she is at peace with the Lord. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. 🤍
My deepest sympathies to Mr. B.W. and the Family. Mrs. Hazel was a great friend to my Mother, Cindy “Cinderella” Bowlan for many years and I hate to hear of her passing. My thoughts and prayers to you all during this sad time.
B.W. , my deepest sympathies and prayers for the Lord’s peace for you and your family. We only met briefly several times when I would see you and Hazel. I was at Henderson with her wonderful sisters , Christine and Jane, and first met Hazel through them. No one was more friendly, kind and encouraging to me than Hazel- every time I would happen to be in the same place. I thank the Lord for her friendship. God bless you.