Hazel Elizabeth Koontz was born the daughter of Thomas H. “Hank” Lance and Clara May (Johnson) Lance on January 9, 1920 in Oregon County, Missouri and departed this life October 5, 2012 in Springfield, Missouri at the age of 92 years.
She was united in marriage in Newport, Arkansas to Herbert Koontz, who preceded her in death May 1, 1974.
She is survived by one daughter, Beverly Ann (Koontz) Williams and husband, Jim of Alton, Missouri; one son, Roger Koontz and wife, Janice of Mountain Home, Arkansas; one grandson, Michael Williams and wife, SaDonna of Norwood, Missouri; three granddaughters, Tammy (Williams) Barry and husband, Mark of Webster Groves, Missouri, Rona (Koontz) Williams and husband, Rick of Couch, Missouri and Jana (Koontz) Sisco and husband, Clifford of Springfield, Missouri; nine great-grandchildren, Megan, Madison, and Allison Williams, Grace Barry, Casey and Nora Williams, and Clifford, Drew, and Molly Sisco. In addition, she loved and was loved by many nieces, nephews, Herbert’s family, and a host of friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one daughter, Gwendolyn Sue Koontz; three brothers, Paul, Oscar “Buss”, and Thomas “Junior” Lance; two sisters, Phyllis (Lance) Cory and Virginia (Lance) McMurtrey; and four infant brothers and sisters.
Hazel was a life-long educator, graduating from Arkansas State College in Jonesboro, Arkansas with a degree in Elementary Education. She taught in various one-room schools in Oregon County, ending her career teaching third grade at Alton, Missouri. She spent many years educating, loving, and nurturing thousands of children.
She was a Christian lady and an active member of Riverton Baptist Church, serving as Treasurer for many years and later as Sunday School Secretary. Her family, church, and teaching career were her life.
Hazel will be fondly remembered for her sweet spirit, her beautiful smile, and her willingness to serve others. She will never be forgotten and will live on in the hearts of those who loved her forever.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, October 9, 2012 at 2:00 PM in Riverton Baptist Church near Alton, Missouri with Brother David Case officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 12:00 noon until the time of service. Burial will be in Myrtle Cemetery at Myrtle, Missouri.
October 8, 2012 @ 7:58 pm
Hazel was a beautiful, gracious Christian woman…a blessing to all who knew her. Love and sympathy to Roger and Ann and all of her family. She’ll be missed.
October 9, 2012 @ 7:45 am
We (the Presley family) loved Ms. Hazel. She was such a wonderful friend even though I had not seen her in many years. When I was only 16, she and Herb had purchased a new car and were on their way home. She told me to go drive this car down the road and back. Oh my! One could not be more generous to a teenager than that. Heaven is richer today!
October 9, 2012 @ 9:00 am
Koontz Family:
My prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you many wonderful treasured memories to help you thru the difficult times ahead.
Love and God Bless,
Audena Granger
October 9, 2012 @ 10:47 am
Aunt Hazel was a wonderful, great, loving, caring aunt. I will miss you very much. I know that you are with your sister and brothers. You are in my heart now and forever. Love you forever.
October 9, 2012 @ 5:34 pm
We are very sorry for your loss. She was Bob’s teacher, and he has very fond memories of her. I enjoyed the few years I taught with her. I hope you all find peace during your time of sorrow.
Friends,
Bob and Beverly WRight
October 10, 2012 @ 7:39 am
So sorry to hear about Hazel. She wil be missed.