Hazel Diane Berland, 78, completed her earthly journey August 2, 2026.

Born to Millard Edgar "Did" and Helen Wright on September 10, 1947, she was the second of three children. She is preceded in death by both her parents; her brother, M.E. "Snooky" Wright Jr; her great-grandchild, Baby Anderson; and many beloved pets throughout the years, including Pepper, Taz, Tizzy, and Cotton.

The family will receive friends during a visitation on Friday, August 7, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Lord and Stephens East. Family and friends are invited to come together to share memories, offer condolences, and celebrate her life. In keeping with her wishes, no formal funeral service will be held.

She is survived by her daughters, Kim Boyer (Robert) and Terri Stovall; her five grandchildren, Tiffany Anderson (Dwight), Jessica Sears, Dean Moore (Andrea), Kayla Latimer (Cello), and David "Bubba" McElroy; her five great-grandchildren, Aden Latimer, Mason Anderson, Jonathon Sears, Blane Latimer, and Emma Moore; her sister, Kathy Leasure (Curt); and many extended family members.

She was truly one of a kind—a spitfire with an unwavering spirit, a sharp wit, and a heart that loved more deeply than words could ever express. She found joy in animals, shopping for the perfect outfit or shoes, and never passed up a good meal—especially dessert. Fiercely independent, she loved her family with all she had, even if she rarely showed it through hugs or sappy words. Instead, she loved in the quiet, steadfast ways that mattered most: by showing up, speaking the truth, and always reminding us to know our worth.

Her life was marked by illness and physical challenges that began in her twenties, but she refused to let them define who she was or what she could do. She was feisty, stubborn, unapologetically honest, and never afraid to speak her mind. She had little patience for excuses or nonsense, and "I can't" simply wasn't a part of her vocabulary.

She was the constant our family could always rely on, offering advice that was as unpredictable as it was memorable, keeping us grounded with humor, honesty, and love. Her legacy lives on in every spirited conversation, every shopping trip, every animal we stop to admire, every delicious meal shared, and, yes, every mischievous flip of the bird exchanged among her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in her memory to Tabitha's Closet. For more information about making a donation, please contact granddaughter Tiffany Anderson.

As we say goodbye, we know she wouldn't want us to dwell in sorrow long. We'll honor her by loving each other, spoiling every animal we meet, and carrying on her fearless spirit. Until we meet again, we will carry her with us always.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, East, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com