Hazel Messer, age 91, of Lockhart, Alabama, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026. She was born March 19,1935, in Covington County, Alabama, the daughter of Albert Roberts and Effie Williams Roberts.

Hazel worked in the textile industry for many years. It was honest, demanding work, and she approached it with the dependability and determination that characterized her entire life. She also worked other jobs whenever necessary to provide for her two sons, Chris and Dale.

As a single mother raising two young boys, Hazel's path was not always easy. She carried responsibilities that would have overwhelmed many, yet she never allowed hardship to diminish her love, strength, or devotion to her children. Through personal sacrifice, long hours, and unwavering determination, she gave her sons the guidance and foundation they needed to become fine young men. Much of who they became can be traced directly to the faithful example of the mother who raised them.

Hazel loved flowers and enjoyed visiting yard sales. Those who accompanied her knew that Hazel did things a little differently: she never tried to bargain down the price. If she found something she liked, she simply paid the amount written on the tag. That small but memorable quality said a great deal about her honest, generous, and unassuming nature.

She was humble and kind, deeply loved, and always willing to share whatever she had with someone in need. She turned no one away, offered love freely, prayed at any time, and brought joy and laughter into the lives of others. She possessed a special smile and a gentle spirit that made people feel welcomed and valued.

Hazel was a faithful member of Westside Baptist Church. Her relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, sustained her through every season of life. Although her road was not always easy, her faith remained steadfast. She did not merely speak about the love of Christ, she demonstrated it through the way she lived, the people she helped, the prayers she offered, and the kindness she extended to others. Her life was a testimony to the mighty power of Christ and an example for all who knew her. Hazel was affectionately known as "Granny" to her grandchildren. It was a name she treasured and a role she filled with great love and pride.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Effie Roberts; and her brothers, Roy Lee Roberts and Johnny "Bud" Roberts.

Hazel is survived by her sons, Dale Messer (Karen), and Chris Messer (Rocky); her brother, Ray Roberts (Dolores); her grandchildren, Eric, Brandon, Hayley, and Erin; special friend who was like a sister, Janice Cassady and numerous extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Funeral services for Hazel Messer will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Evans Funeral Home, with Phil McMillan and Billy Pickren officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow in Smyrna Cemetery.

Hazel was truly one special lady. Her life of sacrifice, faith, honesty, and love will continue to speak through the family she raised and the countless lives she touched.