Otego, New York - OTEGO - Hazel R. Reed, 90, wife of Howard J., passed away Monday, April 28, 2025 at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown, following a brief illness.

Hazel was born Dec. 22, 1934 in Lyons Falls, daughter of Arthur and Ethel McIntyre Gardner. She grew up in Port Leyden, where she graduated from Port Leyden High School, Class of 1953. In her youth she was employed at Slim's Diner in Port Leyden. She continued her education at Utica College of Syracuse University, where she took business courses.

On Aug. 27, 1955 she was united in marriage with her best friend and the love of her life, Howard J. Reed at Port Leyden Congregational Church. The couple moved to Syracuse, where Hazel was employed at the VA Hospital. She then transitioned her employment to the federal government as an examiner for the U.S. Civil Service Commission until her retirement. She did continue with state testing as needed. Hazel's other endeavor was working at the Farmer's Museum in Cooperstown.

The couple relocated to Otego in their retirement, where Hazel has since lived. She very much enjoyed nature, feeding and watching the birds, and enjoying the flowers that Howard planted for her that adorned their home. She also enjoyed animals and caring for their pet cat, Spooky. She spent many hours reading her Bible and loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Hazel also enjoyed spending time with her friends and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Hazel is survived by her loving and devoted husband of nearly 70 years, Howard J. Reed; granddaughters, Erin (James) Kraus and their son Cody, of Flemington, New Jersey, Heather (Anthony) Lorenzi, and their son Enzo, Holland, New Jersey, and Amber (Samuel) Love, Springville, Alabama; and nephews Richard and Dustin DeCarlo. She was predeceased by her daughter, Amanda Lee Jones on Nov. 29, 2018; and sister, Marjorie DeCarlo.

In keeping with Hazel's wishes there will be no public services. Interment in Port Leyden Cemetery will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in care of the Trainor Funeral Home, Inc., 143 Schuyler St. Boonville. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

For an online message of sympathy, please go to www.trainorfuneralhome.com.