of West Memphis, AR
October 22, 1931 - June 12, 2025
Hazel Waggener, age 93, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, surrounded by love. A longtime resident of West Memphis, Arkansas, Hazel lived a vibrant, full life dedicated to faith, family, and community.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, James Franklin Waggener, Sr.; her second husband, Robert Buck; and her beloved granddaughter, Rebecca Waggener Vaughn, and her great granddaughter Riley Gray Pool.
Hazel is survived by her son, James Franklin (Susan) Waggener, Jr., and daughter, Patricia Ann Waggener; her cherished grandchildren, Rachel Waggener (Jim) Pool and Jimmy Thorton Ginn, Jr.; and great grandchildren Caleb Pool and Grayson Pool as well as many dear friends who will miss her deeply.
A proud and active member of First Baptist Church West Memphis since 1960, Hazel's faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She found joy in fellowship and was especially fond of her weekly card nights with her Bridge Club.
An adventurous spirit, Hazel earned her private pilot's license, embracing the freedom of the skies. Later in life, she discovered a passion for golf and spent many happy hours on the course. Whether in the air or on the green, she brought energy and enthusiasm to everything she did.
Hazel was deeply involved in the West Memphis community for decades, known for her generosity, warmth, and unwavering support of those around her. Above all, she treasured time with her family and friends, creating memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Riley Gray Pool and Rebecca Waggener Vaughn Endowment Fund
Go to Ouachita's homepage, www.obu.edu. Click on the word, Donate. In the instructions section, make sure to designate your donation to the Riley Gray Pool Endowment Fund or the fund number 286-7173.
Other ways to donate:
1) Call 870-245-4277 to make a credit card payment over the phone.
2) Send a check with the specific fund to:
Development Office, 410 Ouachita Street, Box 3754, Arkadelphia AR 71998
Patti, I'm so sorry to hear of your mom's passing. Please know that your Class of '77 will be thinking of you❤️
Love, Missy
Patti- sending much love to you! Wish I could be there to give you a big hug! Your mom was an amazing lady!❤️
Dear Patti - I'm sorry for your loss of a loved one. I know you'll miss your sweet mom. May peace be with you. Therese
So sorry for your lost .Hazel was a wonderful person.
I loved talking to Hazel over the years about politics, family and most of all our faith in Jesus as our savior. She was a comfort to me 2 years ago when I lost Jerry. She was always so good about calling and checking on Jerry and me and continued to after Jerry passed. You all will be in my prayers in the days ahead. Heaven gets sweeter every day! Love to you all. Sandra Knighton
Hazel was such a beautiful lady with such a lovely spirit and smile. God bless you all!
Rest in peace dear Aunt Hazel. I have many wonderful memories that will stay with me.
Family of Hazel, I was sad to read that Ms. Waggener has gone to her heavenly home, not for her, but for our church our community and those who loved her and me as well. She has been a constant faithful member of our church. As I look around to see who is at the services, I've noticed that Mrs. Waggener is not always present. I will say to her daughter that you taking care of her and bringing her to church that I admire in you or anyone who becomes a caregiver to others particularly their parents. She will be among many I grew to know after we came to join First Baptist West Memphis and now I miss them. It was enjoyable to know more about her life in her obituary. As her family prepares to adjust to life here on earth without her presence, I will think of all of you and pray God comforts all of you in blessings you may have never foreseen. Sincerely, Chris Shoemake