BELFAST — Hazel Mae Richards Bryant, 92, of Belfast died on November 20, 2020 at home surrounded by her family.

She was born on June 25, 1928 to Melvin and Eleanor Hamilton Richards. Hazel graduated from Crosby High School in 1947.

She married Melvin Bryant on June 25, 1947. They were married for 61 years and had five children. Hazel loved children. She did a lot of babysitting and became a surrogate grandmother to many children.

Hazel was a member of the Belfast United Methodist Church and a former member of the Searsport United Methodist Church. She was a Sunday School teacher for several years at the Belfast United Methodist Church in her younger years.

Hazel was a member of the Granite Grange. For the last dozen years, Hazel volunteered at Tall Pines nursing home. She loved visiting the residents and chatting and playing Bingo with them. She loved bringing cheer to their days. Hazel spent several years as a volunteer at the Searsport Elementary School in Searsport, Maine. She loved spending time with the children reading to them, having them read to her and just spending time with them. These years brought much joy to her.

Hazel is survived by her sons: Duane Bryant and Douglas Bryant and wife Sherry; her daughters Susan Bryant and Patricia Dyke. She has eight grandchildren: Danny Bryant, Karen Shaunessy, Micheal Bryant, Melissa Bartlett, Monica Furrow, Julie Dorset, Jennifer Metcalf and Jay Merrill. Hazel has 16 great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

Hazel was predeceased by her husband, Melvin, and son Dennis th’Bear Bryant.

The family would like to thank Maine Health Care/Hospice, Private Home Care, especially Shannon and Dr. Heather Ward for their kindness and care.

Donations in her name may be made to the Belfast United Methodist Church, Camp Mechuwana or to a charity of one’s choice.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, November 24, at 1 p.m., at Smart Cemetery in Belfast. A memorial service will be announced in the future at Belfast United Methodist church when restrictions are lifted.  

Memories and condolences may be shared at ripostafh.com.