OAKLAND, Tenn. / WELCH, W.Va. — Family members and friends are mourning the passing of Hazel Melda (Steele) Bailey, who died peacefully on June 24, 2026, at the age of 93. A lifelong woman of faith and devotion to her family, Hazel’s passing marks the close of a life defined by compassion, resilience, and unwavering love for those around her.
Born on January 11, 1933, in Steeles, West Virginia, Hazel was the daughter of the late Arthur Steele and Minnie Vance Steele. She spent much of her life in Welch, West Virginia, where she built lasting friendships and became known for her warm personality and caring spirit. In recent years, she resided in Oakland, Tennessee, with her daughter Sherry Eskins and son-in-law Rick Eskins, surrounded by the love and support of family.
Hazel was remembered by those who knew her as a woman whose greatest joy came from spending time with family and friends. Whether sharing stories, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, she embraced every opportunity to create cherished memories. Her kindness, generosity, and gentle nature left an enduring impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Throughout her life, Hazel exemplified quiet strength and unwavering faith. Friends and relatives describe her as someone who faced life’s challenges with grace while remaining deeply committed to the people she loved. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, reflecting the compassion and hospitality that defined her character.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James W. Bailey; her parents; her brother, Abert Steele; her sisters, Virgie Justice, Essie Mullins, Nellie Worthington, and Stella Browning; and her son-in-law, David Lohmann. Despite the many losses she experienced throughout her lifetime, Hazel remained a source of encouragement and strength for her family.
Those who survive Hazel continue to celebrate the remarkable legacy she leaves behind through generations of children, grandchildren, extended family members, and friends whose lives were enriched by her unwavering love and guidance. Her influence will continue to be felt through the values she instilled, the memories she created, and the compassion she shared so freely.
As news of her passing spread, heartfelt tributes have honored Hazel’s life of faith, humility, and devotion. Many have reflected on her ability to make others feel loved and appreciated, remembering her as someone whose presence brought comfort and whose generosity touched countless lives.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Fanning Funeral Homes in Welch, West Virginia, where family and friends will gather to celebrate Hazel’s life and legacy. Additional service details have been shared through her official obituary.
Although Hazel Melda Bailey’s earthly journey has come to an end, her legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, faithful friend, and compassionate woman whose life was a blessing to generations.
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