Mary “Hazel” Leonard, 86, of Conway, S. C., passed away peacefully in her home with family at her side on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.
Hazel was born on October 27, 1938 in Washington, D.C. to Herman and Mary (Garner) Rawlings and grew up in Upper Marlboro, Maryland before marrying the love of her life, William “Bill” Leonard, and together raised two children. Hazel was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose love touched all who knew her and will never be forgotten.
In addition to her loving husband of 69 years, Hazel is survived by her daughter, Joyce Hammond (Steve) and her son, Wayne Leonard (Terry); along with three grandchildren, Jennifer Forrest (Jack), John Hammond (Britney), and Preston Leonard; Eight great-grandchildren: Ashlynne, Cole, Kylee, and Rhett Forrest; Paisley Leonard; Greyson, Madelyn, and Brooklyn Hammond; her brother, Thomas Rawlings (Brenda); Nephews: Christian and Justin Rawlings; Manley, Stephen, and Rick Harris; and extended family and friends, all of whom she adored.
In addition to her parents, Hazel was preceded in death by her sister, Doris Harris and her husband, Robert; grandson, Michael Leonard; and nephew, Alan Harris.
Hazel’s great joy was watching her children and grandchildren grow into adults and sharing in the “fun” times of watching them raise their families, attending many of their sporting and school activities or just having family dinner gatherings where her potato salad and Almond French Bread Pudding was always a hit. She also loved to play Rummy and usually won!
Hazel retired from Grand Union as a cashier to join her husband in several business endeavors as owner/operators, which included: Clinton Amoco in Clinton, Maryland, the Sandman Motel in Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Front Royal Exxon in Front Royal, VA., before returning to South Carolina to enjoy “real” retirement of collecting shells on the beach, walking the board walks & river walk, and fishing on the piers with Bill.
The family will receive family and friends from Noon-1:00 pm on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at Maddox Funeral Home in Front Royal, Virginia, with graveside services to follow at 2:00 pm at Ivy Hill Cemetery, Upperville Virginia.

One of the greatest women to exist, thank you for all the happiness, joy, love, and guidance you’ve shown me my whole life. Love you always, P
My heartfelt condolences on the passing of Mary “Hazel” Leonard. Please know that my thoughts are with John and Britney Hammond, and the entire family during this difficult time. Hazel’s legacy of love, family, and warmth will live on in all who knew her.