Life Story
“Get your hat, your coat, and leave!” And with those words, the gym erupted. Cape’s fans got hype and opposing fans became annoyed. But what could they say? They could either laugh or be quiet because Tony Hazzard, Sr. was in the building! Tony was without a doubt, the most vibrant and effective sixth man in Delaware. The effect that his energy had on games and sporting events was undeniable. Tony was a man of many names – churchman, the GOAT, MC Hammer to mention a few - and a man of many words. Tony had a lot to say and say it, he did. Tony was an avid and dedicated Cape Henlopen sports fan; however, he supported all of his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and people never knew where he would show up. He was everywhere, and when he got there, everyone knew he was there.
Tony took fashion cues from no one. His signature look was all his – a flashy suit (with the jacket sleeve label still attached), matching shoes, and a fur coat. It did not matter whether he was going to a basketball game or to church. Tony dressed to impress, and he would often compete with Bishop Mifflin to see who would arrive best-dressed to basketball games. Close second to this was Tony’s infectious laugh and larger than life personality. There was never a dull moment when he was around. We all know that whenever there was a family gathering, Tony, Vincent, and Chin would be the life of the party. Tony enjoyed going to the Slaughter Neck Community Center where he would play cards and talk sports.
Tony Curtis Hazzard, Sr. was born March 21, 1956 and departed this life on January 28, 2022. He was the son of the late Leroy Piper, Sr. and the late Mae Hazzard. Tony graduated from Cape Henlopen School District in 1975, and he remained a devoted fan and a long-time fixture in Cape’s stands. Tony was a dedicated worker at King Cole in Milton, Delaware for 27 years until their closing, and he was instrumental in providing for his younger sisters after his mother passed away. In 1983, Tony became one of the first members of Mt. Calvary Pentecostal Church under the leadership of Overseer Dr. Malissa Dukes and the late Rozell Dukes, Sr. Tony was later ordained an Evangelist, and he did not hesitate to spread the gospel. Tony often testified of how God delivered him from his death bed after over a year of severe illness. He was a walking miracle. Tony remained a faithful member of Kingdom Worship Ministries until his passing. Tony would often visit multiple churches on Sunday, and he did the work of an Evangelist both in and out of the church. To God be the Glory!
Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy Piper, Sr., his mother, Mae Hazzard, and his brother, Leroy Piper, Jr. Tony leaves to cherish his memory, his loving and devoted friend and caregiver, Betty Dukes-Hazzard; his children -Tony Hazzard, Jr. and Ashley Dukes Hicks (Ricky) of Lincoln, DE; Justina Hardy, Yashica Baynard, and Alece Rufus (Lamar) of Milford, DE; Keshaw Travies of Dover, DE; Aneisha Smith of Wilmington, DE; Justin Hardy (Veronica) of Hammonton, NJ; and Blake Hardy (Jachina) of Millsboro, DE; 18 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; his brothers and his sisters, Reginald Hazzard (Christine), Vicky Matthews (Troy), Eunice Hazzard, Timothy Hazzard, Stephen Hazzard all of Slaughter Neck, DE; Ada Hazzard of Millsboro, DE; Melissa Gibbs (Frank) of Milford, DE; Celestine Piper and Paulette Bowe of Dover, DE; his goddaughter, Tajah Thomas McCove, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
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Lovingly Submitted,
The Family
Memorable Moments
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