We are saddened to share the recent passing of Hazel Velma Laurita Frances Burton, CNM.
Hazel was born in Antigua West Indies in 1938 and after receiving her General Nursing Diploma in 1959, moved to England, Canada, and then the United States. She was awarded her Midwifery Certification in Kent England in 1964; Certified Nurse-Midwife by the American College of Nurse-Midwives in 1972; BS in Community Health Education from York College in 1978; Master of Arts Degree Community Health Education-International Focus, New York University in 1981; and a BS Degree in Nursing from Adelphi University, 1985. Hazel always endeavored to give the best care and stay well informed in how best to serve the women in her care as a nurse and midwife.
Hazel prepared for a career of service, dedicated to the care of women in obstetrics and gynecology. Her career career began in Holberton Hospital in Antigua. She moved to England, then to Ontario, Canada, where she worked at St. Catherine’s General Hospital as a staff nurse. After 2 years she moved to New York and throughout her career worked at several medical facilities, including Beth Israel and NYU Medical Centers, Queens and Elmhurst Hospitals. She also served at Woodhull Midwifery Service and MIC Family Planning Project. In 1980 she began in private practice, delivering many babies. To say she loved caring for women would be an understatement. She was a pioneer among her peers.
As a teacher, Hazel was lovingly called the “Professor” at LaGuardia Community College, where she was an adjunct lecturer for more than 5 years. The students said she revealed to them not only the science of nursing but the art of caring for people.