Mary Carter Hazwood

In the loving memory of Mary Carter Hazwood, a daughter, sister, mother, grandmother and friend who gracefully lived to the age of 92, peacefully entered eternal rest on September 12, 2023. Mary was born on June 20, 1931, to the late Robert and Bessie Carter in Nash County, NC. She was the youngest of five siblings, Fred Carter (deceased brother) John Henry (deceased brother) Lucy Ann Wright (deceased sister) and Christine Boone.

Mary was educated in the Nash County school system and graduated from T.E. Ricks School. As an adult Mary made her way to the state of Virigina. This is where she started her family with the love of her life James Hazwood(deceased). Mary had four beautiful children and four stepchildren. She began her working career at Moseberth Chicken and later transitioned to Columbia Gas as a customer service representative. Mary Retired from the gas company after twenty-seven long years of service.

Mary was also a true woman of God. Her life was given to Christ at a young age while attending Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist church located in North Carolina. Once becoming a Virginia resident she became a member of St. Mark Missionary Baptist church, where she attended for many decades. Just to name a few of the ministries she joined which were the #2 usher board, in which she led for 25 years and the pastor’s aid committee.

As a sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, Mary was a source of unconditional love and wisdom. Her warm smile and nurturing spirit touched the hearts of all, who looked up to her as a source of guidance and inspiration. She cared deeply for her family and neighbors. She did this not out of obligation, but because of who she was. She was the matriarch of the family, her legacy of love, faith and family values will continue to be passed down through the generations.

In addition to her husband, parents and a few siblings Mary Carter Hazwood was preceded in death by her sons James E. Hazwood, and Anthony Hazwood (Christal Hazwood-still living), grandson Melvin Hike, and great grandson Kharee Scott.

Left to cherish her memory, older sister Christine Boone; children, Cynthia Artis (Jerome Artis), Sandra Barnes, Melvin Hike (Barbara Hike), and Shirley Manley. She also leaves many grandchildren and great-grandchildren just to list a few; Steven Southall, Makena Southall, Shena Southall, Latoya Scott, Rashawn Barnes (Bre Barnes), James A. Hazwood, Monica Hike and Mark Hike. Terrance Southall, Sterlyn Southall, Tiffany Cost (Keon Cost), Tyree Barnes, Tony Barnes, and Camden Hazwood. With a total of fifteen great grandchildren, thirteen great-great grandchildren, and a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends who will forever hold her memory dear. All of those whom she loved and touched deeply.

Mary’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and devotion to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She found community, and the strength to face life’s challenges with grace and resilience. Although she is no longer with us in body, her memory will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved her dearly.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6