James S. Hazel, 67, of Freedom, Indiana, passed away on September 3, 2026, at his home in Freedom. He was born in Bloomington, Indiana, on August 11, 1959, to Lawrence J. Hazel and Leola A. (Woods) Hazel. James married Dana L. (Eagan) on July 11, 1980.

James was a Veteran of the United States Navy and after his military service to our country, he worked for 35 years with AT & T as a Tele-Communications Specialist. James was a member of the Mt. Moriah Apostolic Church. He truly loved the Lord and was in attendance every time the church doors were open. In his leisure time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling (especially out West), and reading.

Family left to cherish memories of James includes his wife Dana L. Hazel; three sons, Scott (Amy) Hazel of Spencer, Michael Hazel of Freedom, and Josh (Sandra) Downing; 10 grandchildren; his uncle’s Harold (Barbara) Hazel and Don (Carol) Hazel.

James is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and two sisters.

Funeral services to honor James’ life will be at 1:00 PM on Friday, September 11th, 2026, at Mt. Moriah Apostolic Church located at 1st & D Street NW in Linton with Rev. Kevin Gilbert officiating. James will be laid to rest in the Linton Fairview Cemetery.

Family and friends may call from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the church.

Due to health concerns, a special request by the family is for memorial items not to include fresh flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Moriah Apostolic Church with envelopes available at the church.

Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Meng Family Funeral Homes, Anderson-Poindexter Chapel in Linton. Condolences and memories may be sent to the family online at www.mengfuneralhome.com.