Hazel A. Messam

Hazel Amelia Messam was born on October 21, 1938, in Farm, Manchester, Jamaica, Hazel was the daughter of the late Eliza Beckford and the late Basil Boothe. Hazel received her early education at Campbell Castle Elementary School in Windsor Forest. As a young woman, she worked diligently in both a grocery store and a hardware store, serving her community with dedication. She later pursued sewing lessons and became a skilled seamstress, also excelling in cooking, knitting, and crocheting.

In 1954, at the Open Bible Church of God, Hazel made a life-changing commitment to the Lord, a decision that became the cornerstone of her faith, character, and way of life.

In 1967, Hazel immigrated to the United States of America, where she first worked as a housekeeper before beginning a new career at the Cambridge City Hospital in Cambridge, MA. She was widely admired for her unwavering work ethic, gentle spirit, and compassion for others. In 1969 she played a pivotal role in providing the means for her son Paul, parents and siblings to also immigrate to the United States.

Hazel married the love of her life, Neville Messam, on April 24,1976 and they attended the Apostolic Pentecostal Church in Cambridge, MA. In 1978 they welcomed their son Vernon into the world. They transferred their membership to the New Testament Church of God in Somerville, MA. which later relocated to become the Stoughton Street New Testament Church of God. Hazel also possessed a love for music and was a Charter Member of the Stoughton Street New Testament Church of God where she faithfully held the positions of co-treasurer, Women's Ministries Choir member, and bus driver.

Hazel was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband: Neville Messam, her parents: Eliza Gregory, Robert Gregory and Basil Boothe, her brother: Weston Gregory, brother-in-law: Lloyd Williamson, sister-in-law: Bibi Taylor, and her great-grandchild: Ezra Curate.

She is survived by her two loving sons: Paul Curate (Marcia), Vernon Messam, Sr. (Felice), two sisters: Gloria Lewis and Olive Williamson, grandchildren: Justin Curate (Toni), Jannina Curate, Arielle Curate, Vernon Messam, Jr., and Lyndonnia Messam. Great-Grandchildren: Jaivon Curate, Trinity Curate, Zharia Shook, Alexandrie Curate, and Jeremiah Curate. Sister-in-laws: Nellie Henry, Beverly McBean, Louise Lamey, Jennifer Clarke. Brother-in-Laws: Jonathan McBean, Jeff Mason, Ezekiel Marley, Errol Williams. A loving truly devoted Caretaker: Fayann Reid and a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends.

Hazel's legacy is one of faith, kindness, and selfless service. She will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her church, and her community. May Hazel's memory continue to inspire everyone who loved and knew her. She will be deeply missed.