Hazel Fay Sommerville's Obituary
Hazel Sommerville, a beloved mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother, passed away at her home in El Cajon on June 2, 2023,
surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 12, 1929, in Cleveland,
Ohio, Hazel lived a remarkable life filled with precious memories and
countless joys.
Hazel's passions were as vibrant and varied as the colors of her backyard
garden. For many years, she tended to her large garden, cultivating
tomatoes, squash, cucumbers and green beans, as well as various fruits to
create delicious jams. In her younger days, she sold the excess produce to
nursing homes and neighbors, and the proceeds were enough to pay for
many of her household appliances.
Music always stirred Hazel's soul, and any melody with a good beat would
get her dancing. In the comfort of her living room, she taught her daughter,
Cheryl, and her grandchildren, Melissa and Christopher, how to jitterbug.
Her love for dancing transcended generations, bringing people together in
celebration.
During her youth, Hazel found great pleasure in playing tennis and was the
top player during high school. Despite not playing for decades, she was still
able to best her daughter when they played each other.
In 1947, Hazel embarked on a lifelong journey with her loving husband,
Orville Sommerville, which lasted until Orville's passing in 2009. They
shared a love for camping and hiking, finding new places to explore and
revisiting old favorites (such as Yosemite). Together, they built a home in El
Cajon where they would spend the last 60 years of their lives, creating a
sanctuary filled with love and cherished moments.
Hazel's vibrant personality and zest for life were undeniable. She was not
one to fade into the background, effortlessly making connections with
everyone she met. Whether it was during chance encounters at the local
Costco or neighborhood gatherings, Hazel had a way of leaving a lasting
impression on those who crossed her path. Her cheeky grin and warmth
created a welcoming atmosphere wherever she went.
One of Hazel's favorite pastimes was attending her daughter's monthly
"Wine Therapy" sessions. She relished the opportunity to mingle and savor
a good glass of wine, while trading good-natured barbs with friends and
loved ones. Her weekly hair appointments were also a highlight, providing
another chance to socialize (while maintaining her perfect bouffant).
She was a frequent volunteer at her grandkids’ school, from being room
mom to carpooling for various activities, where she earned the nickname
BULLET for her lead foot.
Those close to Hazel knew that she had a talent for culinary delights, with
her pies and fried chicken earning her the reputation for being the
undisputed best.
In her later years, she found time to watch more movies, and you could
typically find her TV tuned to Turner Movie Classics. Her favorites were old
Western or classic black-and-white movies, which she frequently enjoyed
with her grandson Chris.
Hazel is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Sommerville, her grandchildren,
Melissa Lowry and Christopher Lucas, and her great-grandchildren,
Samantha and Madeline Lowry.
Hazel Sommerville was a woman of strength, determination, and
unwavering love, and she was feisty until the very end. She will be deeply
missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we bid her farewell,
let us honor her memory in the upcoming days by enjoying a meal with
your loved ones, toasting each other with a glass of good wine and dancing
the next time you hear a great song.
May her soul find eternal peace, and may her vibrant spirit live on in the
hearts of all who knew and loved her.
A memorial service will be held at the Salli Lynn Chapel at Greenwood
Mortuary on Friday June 9th from 6-7pm.
What’s your fondest memory of Hazel?
What’s a lesson you learned from Hazel?
Share a story where Hazel's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Hazel you’ll never forget.
How did Hazel make you smile?
