Hazel Laverne Harper, age 90, of Louisville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 12:07 am, Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

She was born on December 18, 1935. in Clay County, Illinois, the daughter of Paul and Mabel (Conley) O'Dell. Hazel was united in marriage to Donald E. Harper on November 13, 1954, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, and they shared 71 years of marriage.

Throughout her distinguished career, Hazel dedicated herself to various local factories, contributing her skills and hard work at notable establishments including International Shoe Factory in Flora, Spartans Manufacturing in Flora, and Fedders in Effingham. After 25 years of dedicated service, she concluded her career at HELLA in Flora, where her legacy of diligence and reliability will be long remembered.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Hazel was deeply involved in her community and her church. A longstanding member of the Louisville Methodist Church, she was an active participant in Mission work, reflecting her profound commitment to giving back and serving others. Her warm spirit and caring nature left a meaningful impact on many lives.

Hazel found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a passion for cooking that delighted family and friends alike, often sharing her culinary creations with them. Her love of the outdoors was evident in her frequent fishing trips and her dedication to gardening. Hazel tended to a flourishing garden and lovingly maintained her flower beds, creating a vibrant, welcoming environment not only for herself but also for those around her. Hazel had a kind and nurturing spirt that made everyone around her feel the love she shared with others.

Hazel is survived by her husband: Don Harper of Louisville; children: Rick (Ginger) Harper of Noble, Monica (Brent) Bailey of Louisville, Rusty (Lori) Harper of Marion, Illinois, Tracy (Joyce) Harper of Flora, Nathan (Daryla) Harper of Olney; 15 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild.

Hazel was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter: Paula Harper; siblings: Bob O'Dell, Marge Bailey, Mary Childers.

A private family funeral service will be held at the McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville, with burial following at Orchard Hill Cemetery, Louisville. The family requests that memorials donations be made in Hazel's memory to the Louisville Methodist Church, and can be mailed to the funeral home.

The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or to share a memory or story of Hazel, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.