Hazel R. Reed

Otego, NY – Hazel R. Reed, 90, wife of Howard J., passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025 at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown, following a brief illness.

Hazel was born on December 22, 1934 in Lyons Falls, New York a daughter of Arthur and Ethel McIntyre Gardner. She grew up in Port Leyden, where she received her education, graduating from Port Leyden High School with the Class of 1953. In her youth she was employed at Slim’s Diner in Port Leyden. She then continued her education at Utica College of Syracuse University, Utica, where she took business courses.

On August 27, 1955 she was united in marriage with her best friend and the love of her life, Howard J. Reed at the Port Leyden Congregational Church. The couple moved to Syracuse, where Hazel was employed at the VA Hospital, in Syracuse. She then transitioned her employment with the federal government as an examiner for the U.S. Civil Service Commission until her retirement. She did continue with state testing as needed. Hazel’s other endeavor was working at Farmer's Museum in Cooperstown, NY.

The couple then relocated to Otego, New York in their retirement where Hazel has since lived. She very much enjoyed nature, feeding and watching the birds, and enjoying the flowers that Howard planted for her that adorned their home. She also enjoyed animals and caring for their pet cat Spooky. She spent many hours reading her bible and loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Hazel also enjoyed spending time with her friends and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Hazel is survived by her loving and devoted husband of nearly 70 years, Howard J. Reed. She was predeceased by her daughter Amanda Lee Jones on November 29, 2018. She is survived by her granddaughters: Erin (James) Kraus and their son Cody, of Flemington NJ and Heather (Anthony) Lorenzi, and their son Enzo, in Holland, NJ, and Amber (Samuel) Love, Springville, AL. She was also predeceased by her sister Marjorie DeCarlo. She is also survived by her nephews Richard and Dustin DeCarlo.

In keeping with Hazel’s wishes there will be no public services. Interment in Port Leyden Cemetery will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Her arrangements are in care of the Trainor Funeral Home, Inc. 143 Schuyler St. Boonville, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

For an online message of sympathy, please go to www.trainorfuneralhome.com.