Hazle Frances Ruth Sledge, 78, of Highlands, Texas, passed away on Friday, September 3, 2021 at her home. She was born March 27, 1943 in Waco, Texas to parents James Dean and Ocie Hardin Dean who preceded her in death along with her husband Alton Sledge; son Rusty Sledge; brothers Bob Dean, Sam Dean, and Jim Dean; sisters, Norma, Deana Edwards and husband “Dub”, and Jackie Dean; and brother-in-law Bobby Sledge.
Hazle was a wonderful mother and Nanny to her grandchildren. She was a member of the Old River Terrace Methodist Church for many years where she was involved in many activities including the “back pack lunches”. She loved to travel the world, taking many adventurous trips with her daughter making lasting memories. Hazle loved helping people and was always giving of her time. In her spare time Hazle enjoyed gambling, cooking, working in her yard, and collecting Coca Cola memorabilia and Looney Tunes.
Hazle leaves behind to cherish her memory her daughter and best friend Leara Padgett and husband Steve; grandchildren Stephen Padgett and wife Melissa, Zackery Padgett and wife Hillary; great-grandchildren Mason, Allison, Jeremy, Alton, and one on the way (Avalynn); her beloved dogs T.J. and Junior; brother Tommy Dean; brother-in-law Sam Sledge; sisters Mary Propst and Leara Leasure along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
A visitation for Hazle will be held 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 10, 2021 at Sterling-White Funeral Home, Highlands, Texas. Funeral Services will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Sterling-White Funeral Home officiated by Pastor Greg Smith. Interment will follow in Sterling-White Cemetery. Serving the family as pallbearers will be Mark Follwell, Stephen Padgett, Zackery Padgett, Jonathan Sledge, Clancy Woodard, and Jason True. Honorary pallbearer will be Sam Sledge.