With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Hazel Marie Hornbeak who departed this life on July 3, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born on August 6, 1938, in Nuyaka, Oklahoma to Dave & Annie Scott, she was the sixth child of eight children. She was a proud mother of five children, one of whom preceded her in death. Her legacy continues through her 15 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom carries memories of her unique spirit. To know Hazel was to know a woman with a personality far bigger than her small stature. She was feisty, fearless, and never afraid to tell you exactly what she thought. She could be as gentle as a saint one moment and a straight shooter the next, and those who loved her wouldn’t have changed a thing. She was a true firecracker whose strength, determination, and sense of humor made her unforgettable. She believed in staying busy. Whether tending a garden, searching for treasures at garage sales, casting a fishing line, or enjoying Thursday night trips to the casino, she found joy in life’s pleasures. She had a talent for stretching every dollar. Family often joked that she could buy something at a garage sale, sell it later at her own, and somehow come out ahead. Behind that thriftiness was a woman who quietly worked hard, saved faithfully, and always made sure her family was cared for. Christmas at her house was a cherished tradition. She delighted in finding gifts for everyone, often wrapping practical treasures or bargain finds with the same love and excitement as the most expensive gift. Whether it was a pair of socks separated from a larger package or a unique garage sale find, her gifts always carried the unmistakable message that she was thinking of each of us.

Hazel gave her life to Christ at an early age. Her faith was an important part of life. She faithfully served at New Jerusalem Baptist Church for many years as a secretary, Sunday school teacher, and member of the New Post Oak Cemetery committee. She also dedicated many years of service to Dr. William Mitchell Veterinary Clinic, Beggs Public Schools & Beggs Community Food Center. Even in her later years she found purpose in staying active, happily taking on small office tasks at her nursing home because she simply loved having a job to do. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, her first husband Ervin DeJear, and her baby girl Marsha Elaine DeJear. 

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband George Hornbeak, Stroud, OK; daughters, Sharon (Jimmy) Cazenave, Okmulgee, OK, Brenda DeJear (Robin Roberts), and Angela (Armando) Bruner both from Oklahoma City, OK son Reggie (Barbara) DeJear, Tulsa, OK, step-daughters Annette Caufield and Lisa Hornbeak, Stroud, Ok; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members and friends. As the last surviving sibling, she carried with her a lifetime of family stories and memories that will forever remain a part of those who knew her. Though our hearts are broken, we celebrate a woman whose strength, wit, generosity, and determination shaped generations. Her lessons in hard work, perseverance, resourcefulness, and unconditional love will continue to live on through her family. 

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever treasured.

The Hour of Remembrance for Hazel will commence on Friday, July 17, 2026 at the Eleventh Hour in the most holy sanctuary of First Baptist Church South Beggs, where Pastor Greg Lewis will preside.

You may visit Mrs. Hornbeak as she slumbers in sweet repose at the Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc., of Okmulgee on Thursday, July 16, 2026 from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM.

You may order flowers: (918)687-7574 lakelandflorist.com