Hazel Mariah Whitfield Woody

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Hazel Mariah Whitfield Woody, 96, on July 24, 2026. Hazel was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, cherished family member, and dear friend whose life was defined by love, resilience, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear.

Hazel was born on November 7, 1929, in Millersview, TX, where she lived until the age of 13 before moving with her parents to Asheville, NC. In 1953, she and her husband, Way Woody, Jr., made their home in St. Louis Park, MN, where Hazel would reside for more than 70 years.

At just 17 years old, Hazel began her career with the United States Postal Service, in Asheville, a profession she faithfully dedicated herself to for 47 years. It was the only job she ever held before retiring, a testament to her remarkable work ethic, loyalty, and commitment.

Hazel’s life was marked by extraordinary strength. She lived through the Great Depression and experienced both life’s greatest joys and its deepest sorrows with grace and quiet determination. She was the heart of her family, offering comfort, wisdom, and unconditional love to every generation.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Way Woody, III, who passed away at the age of 8; her mother, Mariah Wike Whitfield; her father, Gaylen L. Whitfield; and her brother, Theron W. Whitfield. Though she endured the profound heartbreak of outliving each of them, her love for her family never wavered.

Hazel is survived by her loving daughter, Maria Gayle Woody Riley; her three grandchildren, Michael, Richard, and Mariah; and her seven great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by her gentle spirit, steadfast guidance, and unconditional love.

To her family and friends, Hazel was a constant source of warmth, comfort, and joy. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome, and the memories she created with those she loved will be treasured forever. Her laughter, her warm embraces, and the countless moments shared around her will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

While our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in knowing that a love as deep as Hazel’s never truly leaves us. Her legacy lives on through her family and in the countless lives she touched with her kindness, compassion, and strength.

Hazel Mariah Whitfield Woody will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

The graveside service for Hazel will be held on Saturday, August 8, at noon at Green Hills Cemetery, Asheville.

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.