Hazel Drake

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Hazel Marie Wilson-Drake, a cherished pillar of the Anderson community and a beacon of kindness to all who knew her, left this world on December 10, 2025, in her hometown of Anderson, Missouri. Born on June 29, 1940, Hazel's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, devotion, and service.

Hazel's journey began as a beloved daughter in Anderson, where she grew up surrounded by the affection of her parents and siblings. She found her first love in Carl Joseph Wilson, to whom she was married on June 28, 1958. Their life together was a beautiful tapestry woven with joy, challenges, and the blessings of family until Carl's passing on December 24, 2012. Hazel was also preceded in death by her daughter, Kay Turner, and her siblings Harold, Charles, George, Jimmie, Frieda, Dorothy, and Mary.

In a heartwarming second chapter of love, Hazel married Ivan Dale Drake on August 29, 2014. Ivan remains to honor her memory and the life they built together. Hazel's legacy continues through her children, Patricia Porterfield and husband Frank of Noel, MO, Rick Wilson and wife Amanda of Dayton, OH, Patsy Baldwin and her husband, Steve, of Anderson, MO, as well as Rick Drake of Neosho, MO. Her sister, Mabel Teague of Neosho, MO, will also hold dear the memories they shared.

Hazel's love blossomed into an extensive family tree, with grandchildren Joey, Amanda, Christopher, Stacy, Ashley, Terrance, Tara, Matthew, Randall, Rachael, Andy, Austin, AJ, Nick, Andrew, Catie, and AJ, along with their spouses; great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward her spirit of generosity and care.

For 37 years, Hazel served the Town and Country Supermarket in Anderson, MO, not just as an employee but as a friend to all who walked through its doors. She was known for her boundless compassion, often delivering groceries to those who could not come to the store. She was a dedicated member of the Freewill Baptist Church in Neosho, MO.

Hazel's interests were as warm and homegrown as her personality. An avid bowler, she enjoyed the camaraderie and friendly competition of the lanes. Her love for old-time country music could be felt in her joyful presence, whether she was singing along to a favorite tune or simply tapping her foot to the rhythm. Above all, Hazel cherished time spent with her family. She was the heart of every gathering, the one who remembered every birthday, and the first to offer help when it was needed.

The impact Hazel had on her community and the lives she touched cannot be overstated. She was a woman who cared deeply for others, and her absence will be profoundly felt by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As the sun sets on Hazel's earthly chapter, her story does not end. It lives on in the countless acts of kindness she bestowed, the love she shared, and in the memories that will be treasured by her family and friends. Hazel Marie Wilson-Drake was a remarkable woman, and her light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, December 15, 2025 at the Anderson Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes. Pastor Barry Reel will officiate. Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at the funeral home, the family will receive friends at this time.