Hazel T. Gaskin, 86, of Columbia, died Saturday, September 9, 2017. Born on July 23, 1931, in Greeleyville, SC, she was a daughter of the late Julius and Aleen Frierson Braxton. She was a former member of Shandon Baptist Church.

Hazel pursued several entrepreneurships, including Fins and Paws Pet Shop, Hazel's Pet Boutique, Speedy-Mart and various real estate ventures. She loved life, going to the beach and spending time with her family. Hazel was a very strong, independent, outgoing, and quick-witted lady. She had a very loving, caring heart, and a strong faith in God and believed in the power of prayer. Hazel practiced being a good Samaritan and was always there for anyone that had a need. She would give you a shoulder to lean on and strength to stand. Hazel was loved by many.

Survivors include her children, Patricia Gail Motley (Marion), Jimmie Kay Gaskin, and James W. "JW" Gaskin, Jr. (Annette); six grandchildren, Kent Baker (Laura), Travis Motley (Alison), Michelle Vickroy (Randall), Amanda Butler (Justin), Julie Roach (Matt), Tessa Cunningham (Doug), and 16 great grandchildren; son-in-law, Kenny Baker; her siblings, Edward Junior "JR" Braxton, Jesse Mae "Jackie" Raby, Bobby Larry Braxton, Jo Anne Braxton Turner, and Tommy Neal Braxton. Also surviving are other special friends, Raymond Billy Jenkins, Jr., Edgar Jenkins, Walter Jenkins, Linda Spires, and John Carey. In addition to her parents, Hazel is preceded in death by her longtime companion, Raymond Jenkins; daughter, Thelma Gaskin Baker; a brother, William Walker Braxton; and her first husband, James W. Gaskin, Sr.

The funeral service for Mrs. Gaskin will be held at 3 o'clock, Thursday, September 14th at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, with The Rev. Greg Sweet officiating. Entombment will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 o'clock, Wednesday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to a charity of one's choice.