Bertha Ann Hazelwood
(nee Schott)
May 29, 1950 – June 1, 2025
Bertha Ann Hazelwood, age 75, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025, at Mercy West Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. Born on May 29, 1950, in Batesville, Indiana, she was the only child of Irvin and Callie (Corwin) Schott.
A proud 1968 graduate of Batesville High School, Bertha married the love of her life, Carl E. Hazelwood, on February 13, 1975. She dedicated 41 years to Hill-Rom, retiring in 2009. Retirement didn’t slow her down—instead, it allowed her to pour even more of her time and heart into her true passion: supporting Batesville Athletics.
In her younger years, Bertha was a fierce and accomplished muzzleloader shooter, earning recognition and trophies at many competitive shoots. She brought her passion for primitive muzzleloading into local classrooms, where she engaged students with hands-on, historical demonstrations. As her children grew, Bertha gradually set aside her competitive shooting and began her journey with the school system—one that would shape her legacy in the decades to come.
For more than 30 years, Bertha was the heart and soul of Batesville High School athletics—a constant, comforting presence who gave everything she had, and then some, to the students, coaches, and fans who filled the fields and gyms. She served as President of the Athletic Boosters, worked behind the scenes supporting the athletic department, and was a fixture at the concession stand, greeting generations of Bulldog fans with a warm smile.
Bertha’s commitment went far beyond any assigned duty. She gave of herself with grace, humility, and an unshakable passion for Batesville. While much of her work happened quietly behind the scenes, her impact was always front and center. She mentored and encouraged countless student-athletes, coaches, and community members—becoming not just a volunteer, but a friend, a leader, and a lasting example of selfless service.
As one community member shared, “She was ever-present at all of my kids’ sporting events throughout the years. She was dedicated and one-of-a-kind.” Another said simply, “The Batesville community has lost a treasure.” Bertha’s absence will be deeply felt, but her legacy of pride, passion, and unwavering support will live on in the lives of everyone she touched.
Bertha is survived by her son, William “Bill” Irvin (Erin) Hazelwood; her daughter, Bernice Lynn (Thomas) Essick, both of Batesville, IN; and her beloved grandsons, Levi and Wyatt Essick. She is also survived by sisters-in-law Janet Holt and JoAnne Hazelwood; nieces Char (Jacques) Lussier, Marge (Rod) Richardson, Chris (Dennis Murphy) Hazelwood, and Lisa (Kenny) Brown; nephews Charles (Katie) Hazelwood and Keith (Ann) Hazelwood; many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; and cherished family friends Jama and Jorja Cleghorn.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Hazelwood; her parents, Irvin and Callie Schott; and brothers-in-law Charles Hazelwood and Winston Holt.
Visitation will be held Monday, June 9, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Weigel Funeral Home in Batesville. A funeral service will follow on Tuesday, June 10, at 10:00 a.m., at Weigel Funeral Home officiated by Andy Allen. Burial will take place immediately afterward at St. John’s Cemetery – Huntersville in Batesville.
In honor of Bertha’s lifelong commitment to student athletics, memorial contributions may be made to the Batesville Athletic Boosters for the purchase of new concession equipment—an area of special meaning to Bertha and those who served alongside her.
Online condolences may be shared at www.weigelfh.com.