Hazel Gibson

Hazel Milam Gibson, 88, formerly of Ringgold, Virginia, died Friday, February 14, 2014, at Roman Eagle Memorial Home. Born on April 12, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Charlie Lee Milam and Virginia Booth Milam. After graduation from Dan River High School, she was employed by Dan River Mills, until her retirement, as Stitcher Operator No. 4 in the Gray Inspections Department. In 1945, she married Monsie Gibson, who died on July 2, 1982. Hazel was a lifelong member of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church in Danville. She is survived by five sisters, Dorothy M. Dameron, Rubye M. Moore, Mary Ann Burton, Ruth M. Johnson, and Sallie M. Atkinson, as well as many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held at Townes Funeral Home at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, February 18, 2014, with a service to follow in the chapel at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private. Hazel was the fourth of nine daughters born to Charlie and Virginia Milam. With naturally curly hair and a love of fashion, she grew into a lovely woman who enjoyed dressing to the nines. When she finished Dan River High School, Hazel was hired at Dan River Mills. She had a boundless energy that helped her discover that there was good money to be made at the mill, and she remained there until her retirement. In 1945, she eloped with her beloved Monsie and they were married until his death in 1982. Monsie had traveled extensively as a truck driver, and he began taking Hazel on trips. It was then that she was bitten by the travel bug and was always ready to pack her bags and hit the road! Throughout her life, she traveled all over the United States as well as Russia, Israel, China, British Columbia, and all over Europe. One of Hazel's favorite things to do was to accompany Monsie on his trips to Richmond so she could shop at Miller and Rhodes. She never missed an opportunity to look her very best. Hazel and Monsie's home was always filled with family, friends, lots of laughter and love. She always had an open spot at the table for anyone who came by, and filled them with fried chicken, country ham, mashed potatoes, and her famous chocolate pie. There was always a constant stream of her favorite chicory coffee available as well. They spent many happy years at their cabin at Buggs Island Lake. Hazel enjoyed waterskiing and fishing, and guests were always welcomed with open arms. Although Hazel never had children of her own, she deeply loved all of her nieces and nephews and took a keen interest in everything that they did. Her fireplace mantel was filled with photos of all of the children and she took great pride in each and every one of them. She had a special way of always making everyone feel that they were very special to her. When Hazel went to live in the memory care unit of Emeritus, she adjusted extremely well. Instead of looking back at her life with sadness, she embraced her new life by making new friends and participating in all of the activities offered - especially the music programs! The staff found that Hazel liked activities such as circle bowling, balloon bounce, and checking on the garden outside to see what was growing. She was also known as the Hall Patrol Lady and could be found "shopping" in the other residents' rooms. Hazel will always be remembered for her bottomless well of energy, her genuine care for those around her, her love of travel, and her musical laugh. We will truly miss her.