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Hazel Marie Syma (Hicks), 93, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 26, 2021, after living her life to the fullest. To all who knew Hazel, she will be lovingly remembered for teaching us to “Keep our eyes on Jesus”. Hazel was born in Hillsborough North Carolina in 1928. She was the oldest of 5 children born to Coy and Sarah Hicks. It was in Hillsborough that she met Sebastyan Syma, a soldier from Texas; they were married in Hillsborough on August 17, 1946. By 1957, they had welcomed 3 children - Linda, Mark, and Philip. Hazel’s life revolved around her children and grandchildren. She was a huge presence in their lives. An avid game player, she always played “played to win”; she was also a talented crocheter and gardener. Most importantly, Hazel was a woman of deep faith, strong character, and a gentle personality; her family and faith in God were always her priority. Elmendorf First Baptist Church was Hazel’s church family. For many years she served in the church choir, taught Sunday School, participated in bible study groups, and was an active member of several committees, including the church prayer warriors. Hazel will be remembered for her support of Christian missionaries in India, specifically contributing to the building of a water well named The Jesus Well, in her honor. Hazel was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Sebastyan Syma, parents Sarah and Coy Hicks, daughter, Linda Syma Pederson, brothers Kenneth Hicks, Donald Hicks, and daughter-in-law, Kacy Syma (Nollkamper). Survivors include sons Mark Syma (Lisa), Philip Syma (Melonie); son-in-law, James Pederson, sister Dorothy Hicks Riley, brother William Hicks (Faye), sister-in-law, Pauline Hicks; ten grandchildren- Jackie Pederson, La Nell Pederson, Jason Pederson, Mitchell Syma, Steven Syma, Kevin Syma, Sarah Swantner, Michelle Syma; Tiffany Hodges, Evan Nemec; fifteen great-grandchildren- Brittanie, Micah, Randy, Christine, Zachary, Kyle, Corey, Jacob; Sebastyan, Stella, Elliott, Everett; Olivia, Ben, Elliot; three great-great grandchildren-Maya, Randy, Marlon. The family would like to thank the staff of Country Care Manor Nursing Home and Heart-to-Heart Hospice for their loving, and attentive care during the last years of her life. In lieu of flowers, a memorial may be made to Elmendorf First Baptist Church, 7455 FM-327, Elemendorf, TX 78112.

Tributes

Hazel Marie Syma

June 4, 1928 - June 26, 2021