NORTH ADAMS, Mass. —  Hazel–Ann Lee Hancock AKA “Dolly” or “Cindy”, 96 of North Adams died on Friday, November 10, 2023 at Williamstown Commons. She was born on July 15, 1927 in Williamstown, MA a daughter of Roy I. Lee & Hazel (Exford) Lee Boyd. She graduated from Williamstown High School and Bliss Business College.

Hazel was last employed as a secretary and Bookkeeper of the Economy Tile Company for 24 years, until her retirement in 1982. Before that, she worked at the Gaevart Co. of America in Williamstown as a Film Inspector, at the Bangor House in Bangor, ME and as a secretary in Denver, CO. She has traveled extensively throughout the United States. Hazel was a genealogist, geologist, artist and author of six books, the latest one, entitled “The fabulous Mining Days of Old New England”. All her books are available at the North Adams Library.

She was a direct decedent of Thomas Lee who arrived from Cheshire, England in 1642, and was one of the first settlers of Ipswich, MA. Hazel was a past member of the Northern Berkshire Gem & Mineral Club for over 50 years, serving in many offices, including show chairman for over 20 years and secretary/treasurer for over 36 years. She was also a past member of the Pownal, Vermont Historical Society, a member of the Friends of the North Adams Library and also was the secretary of “The Friendly Seniors”.

Her religion and her family were the most important part of her life. She served as caregiver and confidante for many years and was deeply loved by family and friends.

Survivors include sister, Jane K. Mongeon and she also leaves over 25 nieces, nephews, great – nieces and great nephews, who are too numerous to name, but loved dearly.

Hazel was predeceased by 3 brothers, Roy Jr (Buddy) John E. Lee, Royce (Rusty) Lee; 3 sisters – Joan E. Lee, Tracy (Grace) Lee, Jessie M Boyd; 3 nephews, Robert Roy Mongeon, John E. Lee Jr., and Jonathan Lee; her beloved step father, Jones L. Boyd, as well as her parents.

FUNERAL NOTICE: Services for Hazel are private. Burial will be in Eastlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the North Adams Public Library through the Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Home- CENTRAL CHAPEL 74 Marshall St. North Adams, MA 01247.