OBITUARY
Hazel Tucker Medders, 78, of Eden, passed away on February 21, 2026, after a long battle with interstitial lung disease (ILD).
She was born to the late U.L. and Martha Tucker of Monticello, AR. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, John Wayne Medders, four of her siblings, and Dan Griffith, who was Papaw Dan to all of her grandchildren. She is survived by her children: Wanda and Rickey Beaty of Mer Rouge, LA; Denise Phillippi of Eden; Wendy and Eric Galindo of Eden; Brandi and Ruben Gloria of Eden; Dustin and Rita Medders of San Angelo; Shawnte and Daniel Virdell of Brady; And by her sister, Lynette Butts of Magnolia, AR; She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Tischa, Jennifer, Jonathon, Keith, Corey, Matthew, Carina, Patrik, Reece, Lyric, Katelyn, John, Izabella, and Reagan; twenty-one great-grandchildren; and many cherished friends and extended family members.
Hazel was a member of the Cowboy Church, which was her passion and spiritual home. She faithfully served as treasurer and dedicated countless hours volunteering. She worked tirelessly to support the Eden Food Bank, seeking donations to ensure it remained a vital resource for the community. She also managed the Eden “Fig Leaf” for several years before it was later donated to the Eden Library.
All of which she received many community honors for her devotion. Earlier in her life, she worked at the Red Barron, Telephone Industries, and for many years at Griffith Fuels.
She found great joy in working puzzles and playing games such as Skip-Bo, dominoes, Uno, Scrabble, and other family favorites, often gathering around the table in laughter and tough but friendly competition. She expressed her love through baking bread and homemade treats, generously sharing them with family, friends, and neighbors. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the absolute light of her life.
Known for her honesty and straightforward nature, Hazel spoke her mind with candor. Those who knew her best understood that her friendly advice was rooted in deep love and unwavering devotion to the people she held dear.
She will be remembered for her servant’s heart, strong faith, and the warmth, laughter, and love she shared so freely.
A celebration of life service for Hazel will be held on Wednesday February 25, 2026 at 2 p.m. at the Hallelujah Trail Cowboy Church Charley Winford in Eden.
— From Harper Funeral Home
