Philip C Hazard
February 26, 1956 ~ August 30, 2023
Marietta Southern Funerals & Cremations
Philip C. Hazard Jr., 67, of Marietta, GA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. He was the husband of Julie (DaGraca) Hazard, his childhood sweetheart to whom he was married for forty-five years. Born in Providence, he was a resident of East Providence for many years before relocating to Marietta, GA in 1997.
Philip was the devoted son of the late Matthew A. Lopes, Sr., and Laura (Barros) Lopes who lovingly referred to him as John.
Besides his wife Julie, he leaves six children, Philip Hazard III (Elena), Leticia Hazard, Joel Hazard (Lindsey), Aaron Hazard (Alexis), Jordan Hazard (Lindsay), and Daniel Hazard (Hillary). He is survived by one brother, Matthew A. Lopes Jr., of Lincoln, RI; and three sisters, Phyllis Conway (Michael) of Powder Springs, GA, Carol Gibson (Peyton) and Laurie Lopes of East Providence, RI. He was a devoted Papa to nineteen grandchildren. He was well loved by a large extended family, including his brethren and sisters in Christ, and many dear friends.
Phil was a proud East Providence (EP) Townie, graduating from EP High School in 1974. Phil was a standout football and track star during his time at EP. In his Junior and Senior years of high school he was a First Team All-New England in the 100-yard dash. Phil was also captain of his high school’s State Championship Track Team. He was inducted into the East Providence High School Hall of Fame in 1992.
Phil was a highly recruited student athlete due to his talent on the track. He made the decision to attend Boston College (BC) where he played football and ran indoor and outdoor track. He was a three-time New England 100-yard sprint king and he set the Boston College 55-yard indoor sprint record. He graduated from BC in 1978 and, he was inducted into the BC Varsity Club Hall of Fame in 1988. At his induction, it was indicated he was one of the premier sprinters to ever represent the college on the track. Phil continued his involvement with BC following his graduation. He held a seat on the Alumni Board of Directors and served as secretary of the Alumni Association. BC remained near and dear to his heart.
After college Phil went on to have a 30-year career at IBM starting as a systems engineer and going on to be Global Customer Satisfaction Manager. His position allowed him to travel the world. After retiring from IBM, Phil pursued his passion of working with youth by coaching track and teaching. He coached track at Sprayberry High School and taught and coached at Mount Paran Christian School. His students and athletes meant everything to him.
While all his achievements were notable, the greatest accomplishments in his life were his strong faith in God and his love for his family and friends. Those who were fortunate to have had a relationship with Phil, were truly blessed. His absence will leave an immeasurable void in our lives.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, from 4-7 p.m. at the Southern Cremations & Funeral on 1861 Dallas Highway, SW Marietta, GA. His funeral will be held on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Southern Cremations and Funeral.
In lieu of flowers, Phil’s wishes were to have donations made to the Truth Cornerstone Project (TCP), where he was a founding member. TCP is a Christ-centered outreach program that was near and dear to his heart.
Check donations can be made payable to: Atlanta North Christadelphian Church and mailed to: Truth Cornerstone Project, c/o Irvin Sierra, 4935 Heritage Crossing Dr. SW, Powder Springs, GA 30127. Online Donations can be made at the TCP website link: https://truthcornerstone.org/donate
Or donations can be made to Sprayberry Track and Field Booster Club, Sprayberry High School, 2525 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta, GA 30066.
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Cousin Phil. May yiu rest in eternal peace. Julie, and family. Please accept our deepest sympathy of the loss of your husband, father, grandfather, brother. Phil was the epitome of a gentleman. Though he has left this world far too soon he will NEVER be forgotten. May perpetual light shine upon him.
My Dad was a God fearing, put Christ first in everything type of Father. As he believed, he isn’t dead but ASLEEP in the LORD. Until the day of his return. He has run the course and kept the faith.
My heart aches. John’s presence and guidance will be sorely missed, but I will forever hold his light and love to help me be better. Rest in Peace my Big Brother. Couldn’t love you more. Mark Edwards
Philip was very deliberate in every step he took, In sports, business and life.
I emulated Philip.
He taught me a lot just watching him from a distance.
For me Philip is the epitome of a Man…..
Rest in Power my friend
Dear Philip, our wonderful, compassionate and brilliant brother in law; our brother ❤️You and all your accomplishments and quite simply , who you are and will always be, shined like a star! Not only a champion athlete,business man, but also a champion son, husband, father, grandfather, brother , coach, teacher and friend.You excelled in everything and elevated us all.You are a pure blessing from God, that’s why I 100 percent believe, you are in heaven now❤️You are so sorely missed, but the consolation rests in the knowledge that, paradise is yours in the amazing , giving ways you made life in this world better for all of us.Love and miss you so much.God took you to heaven and pieces of us went with you, leaving this pain, but in all humility, the greater impact is the happiness of knowing you have no more pain, only joy.God’s speed Philip; God’s speed.Love , appreciate and admire you always.Thank you and God for everything. Mindy
So deeply sorry to hear of Philips transition. He always greeted me with a quiet smile. Liftings prayers of comfort to the family as you go through this season of change.
-Sherri Lee
My deepest condolences to Julie and your family. I know that Philip (John) was a great brother to Matty, Phylllis, Laurie, and Carol; he was a great father to his children and a wonderful papa to his grandchildren. I will keep you all in my prayers. May he Rest In Peace.
Julie and family, so sorry to hear about Phillip’s passing. Condolences to you and the families. Rest in Paradise Phillip. God bless you and your family during this difficult time. Love, Cousin Jennie ❤️🙏🏽
I met Phil through my dear friend and brother Matty Lopes in my sophomore year at East Providence High School.
At the request of his brother Matty,
Phil willingly and enthusiastically proceeded to work with Matty and myself, a tall, gangly red haired freckled face kid. I was the last person anyone would picture as a runner; let alone a sprinter. I suffered from heel spurs in both feet and a surgery to remove a bone in one foot. He didn’t know that. All that mattered to him was to teach me how to run. He met Matty and I before school at 6am where we ran and practiced our starts in the school corridors.
He not only taught us the mechanics, the science and most importantly the confidence to be the best.
Phil’s devotion and mentoring directly resulted in my being a member of the state of RI 4×100 state record setting indoor relay team.
Lastly, his confidence in me played a huge role in the opportunity I had to play 4 years of football at Harvard.
Heaven may have gained a world class sprinter but we lost a world class man.
Jeff Howkins
In this moment of profound sorrow, we pay tribute to Philip, who embodied the essence of love and commitment. As a striking exemplar of a devoted husband and father, his passion extended boundlessly to his wife and children. Despite the immensity of our loss, his remarkable love shall inspire us ceaselessly. Our hearts mourn for Philip as we hold onto these cherished memories; he will be greatly missed deeply but remembered fondly in our thoughts.
I had the privilege of working with Phil. This man lived out his faith every day. We were able to share of God’s faithfulness and goodness as often as we met. He was hilarious, always cracking jokes. Even though I have only known him since 2012, it seems I have known him forever. He will always remain a pillar of faith in my life. I am blessed for having known him. I will be blessed to join him when God calls me. His life is truly one to be celebrated – Jason Reavis
Cousin Phil and I came to know each other later in life and it quickly became apparent he was a godly man of faith. In the times I was able to enjoy his company I came to know him as a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather, an honorable man, a man of integrity, a man of commitment and excellence. Phil was a credit to family and his brethren in Christ.
I believe He’s now heard, “Well-done, thy good and faithful servant.” Enter into the joy of the Lord, my dear cousin.
Blessings,
Stanley Correia and family
I have truly no words to describe such an immeasurable loss for all who knew you. The world is less bright without you. I am forever grateful and blessed for the amazing grandfather you were to Antonio, Jacob, and Jonah. We will always keep you in our hearts and memories. I’ll make sure they keep your love of Disney alive. I’m sad to think you won’t be in the stands for their sports but I know you’ll be watching and cheering on from heaven (and money man is sure not to disappoint). We love you now and always.
Sending love and prayers to the entire family and praying for peace and comfort.
I Know Phil through his sister Phyllis. While I never met him personally, the conversations Mrs Phyllis and I would have about our families, I felt I knew him through her memories. I always admired Mrs Phyllis love for her family, and her big brother was no different. Love and comfort to the entire family. He is now at rest with his eternal father and earthy parents whom are also in heaven.
Julie and all of Phil’s family. I am so sorry to hear of Phil’s passing. My sincere condolences to you all. Philip was a wonderful person who I had the pleasure of knowing back in high school.
May he rest in eternal peace and may you all find peace in knowing that he is with his creator.
🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
God Bless you all,
Elizabeth (Rose) A’Vant
To use words from his obituary. Those who were fortunate to have had a relationship with Phil were truly blessed. I include myself as one of those who are indeed fortunate. Brother Phil was a force, and in his presence was special. Many memories in my head!
This is rich Covington i want to share a memory i have of Phi although Phil and i share a lot of time on the golf course.. my fondest memory of Phi was when i first met him on the 16th floor of wildwood.. I was working late that night and i was going aroung to the printer. And as I approached the print room i heard this music it was Dec. so it was Christmas music. Turns out it was coming from Phils office. so i went in to find out that it was and started talking to Phil. found out he played golf. We hit it off and i had a new friend and golf partner. Phil was a great friend whom I will Miss a lot
Phil was a Big Brother, Mentor and a gentleman of loving kindness, unwavering friendliness, and selfless spirit. His mentorship echoed that of a supportive older brother who would always have time for me. I’ll never forget our memories of playing golf and talking BC football. He is not just an ordinary friend lost but a loyal confidante whose absence will be profoundly felt. 🙏🏽
Julie and Family, I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Phil during our years at IBM Providence. He was one of the kindest, most caring people I’ve known. He always took the time to chat and ask about my husband and son, and share stories of all of you. Phil truly was a gentleman and someone I was proud to have known and called my friend. May Phil Rest in Peace and may the memories you all have of happier times help you through the difficult days ahead and keep him forever close to yiu in your hearts.
You Won The Race Phil
Rest In Peace
Greg Stewart- Boston College 79
My deepest sympathies to the Hazard family on the loss of Phil. He and I go back to Monsieur Barone’s French class at EP High in 1971. I had the great good fortune of watching him play football and run track but was more fortune to call him friend. God rest you, Phil. My prayers to the Hazard Family. Roll Townies!
Mike Quigley EPHS’74
Phil and I met at IBM the year we both moved to Atlanta, 1997. We worked on the same Management team and quickly bonded over our Savior. Who couldn’t just look at Phil and see Jesus? In a work environment where Religion really wasn’t a topic it was hard to hide any Jesus just looking at Phil.
I have so many stories but here are some of the ones I will share.
Way before any of us carried a phone in our cars, I called Phil to tell him that our Boss’s wife was in the hospital and that I was heading to the hospital. Without even missing a beat as soon as I said which hospital it was, he said.. “OH NO YOU ARE NOT… I am picking you up. “ This was early after we had both moved to Atlanta and I was not familiar with where the Hospital was located. Phil knew immediately that I should not drive there by myself. I will never forget the look on Brian Berry’s face when Phil and I came walking into the Hospital to visit Marty. As they say, priceless.
Growing up on a farm in Iowa I was his “go to person” for Farm questions. Do horses really sleep standing up? What’s this about Cow Tipping, is that a real thing? We had some good laughs.
Phil called me Salleeeeee. That is another story. We were at a large Team dinner in Dallas, with some of our worldwide counterparts. One of the men from France held up his wine glass and across a very large table said, “Salleeee we will drink the wine together.” I was embarrassed but Phil, Brian Berry and Brian Sanchez, all thought it was hysterical. Thus, the name Salleeeee stuck.
Phil could not let a day go without talking about his family. Oh, how he loved his family. It was God, Family and Boston College. The last time I visited Phil and Julie was June of this year. On that visit, he was so proud of Dr. Joel.
I mourn and am so saddened for your loss. But I rest in knowing Phil is in good hands, not suffering and we will meet again.
Prayers and love to the Hazard family.
Sending our love, deepest condolences & prayers from the McCabe/Giblin families to the entire Hazard family. I remember meeting Phil when he was at BC through my parents love of the BC football program, and then, had the great honor & pleasure of getting to know Joel so well during & after his years at BC. We were honored to attend Joel & Lindsey’s wedding and loved how special it was since it was performed by Phil. It was so nice to see and meet so many of Joel, Phil, Julie’s & Lindsey’s family members & friends, and to share our love of such a fantastic, special family. I know your loss is profound, as Phil was such a special, loving man, but I pray that your wonderful memories of him will you bring you all comfort in the rough days ahead. Glad he is no longer suffering, and I know he will always watch over you, his family, whom he adored and was so proud of all of you! God bless you all, and may Phil forever rest in peace.
Our deepest condolences to the Hazard family and all who knew Mr. Hazard. We are sending you all our love and prayers during this difficult time. God Bless.
Phil was my first coach at IBM back in 1995. Little did I know then what Phil and his family would mean to me now. When Phil and I worked together I was not a Christian. When I made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as my savior, Phil was my first call. Thanks to Phil I am a better man, husband, father and leader. No man has had a more profound impact on my life than Phil. God willing one day I will see you in heaven and give you a big hug. I love you buddy.
To Phil my dearest BC alumni and to Julie the love of his life, I send my thoughts and prayers to you and your family! Phil and I had many laughs and moments with his roommates, Mike Jackson, Willie Elder, Mike Gee, & Frank, at BC while living on the same floor at the Reservoir Bldg. I just moved back east and thought I would see you in again in GA. Last I saw you and Julie we met at a small restaurant when visiting a dear friend many years ago and continued to stay in touch ever since. My heart was broken over the news but I know that you are now with your father and that you are resting in Gods arms. We love you Phil and we will continue to keep you, Julie and your family forever in our hearts and prayers. Love you always my dear friend, RIHP Melanie Mixon-McClain and Jay McClain… MD.
Bro Phil, A man with a beautiful smile and a kind heart.
Thank you for all of your encouraging words and exhirtations.
It is my turn to take the baton and run the race holding God’s hand.
Til we meet again.
Sis Francesca
My deepest condolences to Julie and the entire Hazard/Lopes/DaGraca families. Phil’s family and my family grew up together on Woodward Avenue and we grew up like family. I can’t recall one time Phil didn’t have a smile on his face or wasn’t upbeat. Always a gentleman and always running. Rest peacefully my friend.
The passing of Phil saddens so many. Phil was always a gentleman and showed kindness to all. My sympathies to Julie and all the Hazards and Lopes family members. RIP Phil.
Coach Phil Hazard,
Has been an inspiration to so many of the SHS Track students/athletes over the years he worked with program. It was amazing to watch and see him work with young athletes. The trust, beliefs and respect they had for him. He was a man of great Christain character… What a blessing it was to work with him over the many years at SHS in Track & Field, the great passion and wisdom he shared not just in Track but in life also. Thank you, Coach Hazard, for being a great friend and coach! Coach Ransom
To my Brother Phil
From Michael Jackson
A Life well lived,
Judy, God bless you and your family.
Michael
My deepest condolences to the Hazard family. Both Philip and Julie were both friends of mine as children and all through high school. You are all in my prayers and he is with our heavenly Father.
Be well
Guida Andrade
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY LOVE COUSIN DENNIS HAZARD, UNCLE Bob and AUNT MARY SON
My condolences to my cousin and his family. God Bless you at this time. Frank Hazard
Phil and I spent a lot of time on the track together as competitor’s. We competed in highschool and college. His father, Mr lopes, was as proud of Phil as any father could ever be. Phil and I were fierce competitors but more importantly we respected each other.
I have been truly blessed to have shared experiences with such a great person. I will miss him at the finish line!
With my deepest sympathy and never ending friendship.
Kerry McKay
MY CONDOLENCES TO MY COUSIN AND HIS FAMILY GOD BLESS LOVE DENISE (HAZARD) RODRIGUEZ FAMILY
Our deepest condolences regarding the loss of your father. May God continue to cover your family with love, comfort, strength, and healing during this time.
Ms. Linda Cunningham & Family
A loving father, husband, and brother-in-Christ, Phil had a strong positive impact on everyone who has ever met him. He is a dearly beloved brother of the Kingdom of God. We shall see him again. Many blessings and comfort to all his loved ones left here to carry on his legacy. From Sister Brenda
My deepest sorrow is extended to Julie and the whole family in this time of loss. Regrettably, it was through a chance reunion in East Providence at a little league game that I fully understood the depth of Philip’s remarkable character. A tender and considerate gentleman, his compassion reflected his unwavering faith. May his soul find repose as he waits for us at heaven’s door. Until then, kind friend, rest in tranquil peace.
I played football with Phil at BC. He was a great person who always had a smile and a positive attitude. My deepest condolences to his family.
Phil, you were a light in the dark. You inspired, encouraged, supported and loved us all, and we love you. Thank you for being a wonderful example for all men to follow and for always believing in God and all of us. We will love you always, Kevin, Licia and kids.
Philip,
Thank you for being in my life and for ALWAYS being you…that light and hope.
And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
Deuteronomy 6:5 (KJV)
Until we are all together again…
Love,
Delores
I had the privilege of meeting Phil at IBM Techline in Atlanta in the late 1990s. Soon afterwards, he was covering for my manager while she was out of the country for a business trip. What happened next clearly demonstrated to me Phil’s priorities and perspective on life.
My pregnant wife was on ordered to be on bedrest by her doctor. Since she was stable and a phone call away, I, as a new employee, felt it necessary to be at work in the office. With great diplomacy, persuasion, compassion, and authority, Phil helped me realize my place was at home with my dear wife. Of course, my manager fully supported Phil’s actions. They cared more about me and my family than my work contribution. Wow! I was at the right company.
Later, Phil became a mentor and lifelong friend. I admired and appreciated him greatly. He will be missed.
Our prayers are with the family.
Brian (Janice) James
I was very sorry to learn by reviewing my BC magazine that Phil Hazard died. I had the distinct honor of serving with Phil on the cabinet of the Undergraduate Government for Boston College. Phil was a born leader, and a simply unforgettable character. I am very sorry that I lost touch with him over the years .He was simply a prince of a fella.
Happy heavenly birthday, Phil.
Today makes a year…..we miss, love and remember your bright smile, your friendly, compassionate nature and you gentle giant spirit❤️Sgain and again…thank you dear G of for having had the blessing of Philip in our lives. Amen 🙏mindy