Hazel Matzke Saunders, age 91, of Slidell, Louisiana, passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2026, in Lacombe, Louisiana.

Hazel was preceded in death by her husbands, Frank Matzke, James Shafette, and Cecil Saunders; two daughters, Ginger Gaudreau and Kimberly Westbrook. She was also preceded in death by her father, Marvin Mizell; mother, Addie Forbes Mizell Crockett; brother, Doyle Mizell; and her sister, Virginia Nelson.

She is survived by three children, Debra Bice, Joni Colburn (Michael), Brandt Matzke (Amanda), son-in-law, Charles Gaudreau; sister, Barbara Williams; and her brother, Mickey Mizell.

Hazel was also survived by seventeen grandchildren, Melissa Jimenez, Brad Bice (Karen), James Bice, Joshua Bice (Leah), Colby Colburn (Diane), Crystal Sisson (John), Brandi Ford (John), Ami Gaudreau, Chas Gaudreau, Brianne Mannino (Jon), Bethany Paternostro (Nico), Avery Poyrena, Anthony, Helaina, Bryson, Elijah, and Caroline Matkze; 33 great grandchildren, and 13 great-great grandchildren. She leaves behind many nieces, nephews, as well as extended family and friends.

Hazel worked in the hospitality industry at several location in Slidell, but as they say "ain't der no more". Towers Restaurant, Bosco's Restaurant, and Pontchartrain Lounge. She eventually opened her own businesses Hazel's Golden Bell and Hazel's Lounge. She was loved by all her customers.

She suffered with dementia and Alzheimer's for the last five years. She first went to a memory care facility Oak Park Community and then transferred to Lacombe Nursing Home until her death. The family would like to thank the staff at both facilities and Harmony Hospice for taking good care of her.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at Living Word Assembly, 26214 US-190E, Lacombe, LA 70445, on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 2:00pm.