Hazel Ingram – 4’s 50-57

Submitted by Marilyn Bazely (Hertford Old 4’s Group)

Born  6th Jan 1939 in Faversham, Kent, Hazel gained an Endowment Scholarship through her local grammar school to go to C.H. She was an only child, quiet and gentle. Hazel once remarked that ‘on entering C.H. she acquired 288 sisters overnight’.

She remained devoted to the school her whole life, attending as many functions as possible at the school, and in London. She regarded C.H.as her ‘family’. Hazel also organised the 4’s Old Blues ‘get togethers’ in London for a number of years, in fact right up to 2019 when illness was affecting her life. Her last visit to C.H. in 2019, was to hear a lecture on the Chapel paintings. It was followed by the band playing, as the pupils marched past. We then enjoyed tea and cakes in the Dining hall, where we were sitting close to some of the paintings, and the organ, from our Hertford Dining hall, and talking to Old Blues. A visit to the museum to bring back memories. The sun shone all day for her, perfect. She was probably more involved in supporting   C.H. than we knew, she was a modest person. Hazel was able to leave a substantial legacy to her beloved school, her ‘family’.

Upon leaving school she studied to become a Radiographer. She worked in several London hospitals, ending up as a senior Radiographer. She also sat on many committees at St. Georges’ Hospital, S.W. London. Mostly connected with patient care on many levels, and she continued her involvement long after she had retired. Though she never married Hazel led a very happy fulfilling life. She had an enquiring and lively mind, with a good sense of humour. Hazel enjoyed cultural pursuits of all kinds, here and abroad, travelling widely. She made the most of any chances or opportunities in her life.

In her latter years she coped with her illness patiently, still doing interesting things, not giving up. Hazel had planned her Christmas 2019, staying in a Windsor hotel for the three festive days. She sadly fell ill on Christmas Eve, and died on Christmas Day. She collapsed in the magnificent St Georges’ Chapel, Windsor, listening to the choir singing beautifully, enjoying all the carols she loved so much.  A ‘fitting’ moment in time for her to slip away, ending the life of an intelligent, and caring lady.