Hazel MacArt Witsell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on July 15, 1934, in Cambridge, New York, Hazel was the daughter of the late Harold David MacArt and Hazel Hinson MacArt.

Hazel attended Hoosick Falls High School in Hoosick Falls, New York. As a young woman, she embraced adventure, making an unforgettable cross-country journey from New York to California with her two brothers during the 1950's. After returning to the East Coast, she settled in Charleston, South Carolina, where she lived with her aunt and uncle. It was there that she met the love of her life, John Mitchell Witsell III, on a blind date. The two were married in April of 1958 and began a life together built on love, faith, family and hard work.

Hazel and Mitchell made their home in Walterboro, South Carolina, where they owned and operated Enterprise Hardware Store for more than 50 years. Hazel faithfully served as the store's bookkeeper, working alongside Mitchell and helping build a business that became a trusted part of the community.

A devoted member of St. Jude Church for more than 60 years, Hazel found great joy in her church family. She especially treasured her time serving on the Altar Guild committee, where she contributed to the life of the church.

Hazel believed life's greatest blessings were found in time spent with those she loved. She cherished summers at Edisto Beach with her family, treasured mountain golf trips, and delighted in afternoons spent with friends at Dogwood Hills Country Club. Whether she was playing dominoes, sharing stories or simply laughing with family and friends, Hazel had a gift for making others feel welcome and loved.

Hazel was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Mitchell Witsell III; her daughter Donna Witsell James; her parents Harold David MacArt and Hazel Hinson MacArt; her brothers Robert Harold MacArt and Walter James MacArt; and her sister, Elaine MacArt Witherill.

She survived by her daughter Debbie Witsell Brown (Jim); her sister, Sandra MacArt Going; her grandchildren, Meghan Brown Rowe (Joe), Ally Brown (Caleb), Samantha James Allen (David); and Kyle Christopher James (Ashley). Hazel also leaves behind her cherished great-grandchildren, Ella McGee Rowe, Hayes Benjamin Rowe, Wade Kellum Allen and Ellery James Allen, She is survived by her son-in-law Keith James, and by a host of extended family members and dear friends.

The family would like to thank all the staff at Kauhale Pettigru Assisted Living for their kindness and professionalism over the past 4 years. With special thanks to Lakeda, Vanessa and Dream for always taking special care with Hazel in the memory care facility. Also, for Agape Hospice and Martha for being so wonderful in the last few weeks.

Funeral services will be held Saturday morning, August 22, 2026, at 10:00am at St. Judes Church in Walterboro, with burial following in the Live Oak Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the St. Judes Memorial Fund, C/O the church, 907 Wichman Street, Walterboro, SC 29488. Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home of Walterboro is handling the arrangements.