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Hazel Erby
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Q&A
Louis Erby 56 Years of Joy
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In the Spotlight
Safety, Peace and Warmth Councilwoman Shalonda Webb remembers Erby PAGE 3
Family & Friends
Leaves a Legacy of Passionate, Impactful Leadership. September 22, 1945 - July 2, 2021
Erby Successor, Councilwoman Rita Days Shares Thoughts “A woman of enormous strength and character.” n unassuming, committed public servant who was here to serve – not being served. A woman of enormous strength and character. A woman devoted to her family and loyal to a fault. Hazel did not hear the cheering Acrowds or pay attention to the distractors, she marched in lock-step with her God. Her steps were ordered and as the
drum continued to beat, she continued to influence. My friend, my confidant! You will be missed. ~ Rita Heard Days
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Images of people who were close to Erby PAGE 5
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STL SPOTLIGHT | OCTOBER 2016
Safety, Peace and Warmth
Q & A With a Loving Husband,
Louis Erby Question: How long have you been married? Dad: We have been married for 56 years as of June 19, 2021, but we were high school sweethearts. We dated three years in high school. Question: How did you two meet? Dad: Well, there used to be a contest, years ago, with Sears and Roebuck through the YWCA. We used to collect green stamps and they had some sort of pageant. The winner was the girl who collected the most green stamps. Hazel was going to participate in the contest but then decided not to run anymore. She wanted to give her stamps to another young lady that I was going to escort in the pageant. This young lady and I walked to Hazel’s house to get the green stamps. This was our freshman year in high school and we had classes together but, we didn’t meet until we went to the house for the stamps. up around 4:30 am on July 2, 2021, with a horrible feeling in the Ipitwoke of my stomach. It was a feeling that
I had never felt before and I knew, at that moment, that my life was about to forever change. I began to think about all of the things that I wanted to say to you or the things that I wanted to hear you say to me – just one more time. I closed my eyes and I asked God to help me find peace. Instead, He did something so much better. He allowed me the opportunity to remember all the beautiful, self-less gifts that you gave to so many. He reminded me that you were loving, kind, funny, thoughtful, fierce, strong, courageous, encouraging, honest, and gifted. You dedicated your life to community, constituents, strangers, friends, and most importantly your family. There was not a single person that you did not want to help in some way if they needed it. I remember walking into the house and telling you about my experience at a grocery store with an elderly man. The cashier was horribly rude to the man, as he tried one card after another trying to pay for his groceries. The purpose of me telling you the story was to point out how rude the cashier was and that I
Question: What advice would you give to couples in order to have a love like yours? Dad: First, you have to fall for your friend. You have to be friends first and then the love will come. We were friends first. You also have to find things about the person that makes you fall in love over and over again. It is important, no matter what the circumstances, to create a lasting relationship. You do that by continuing to fall in love. Finally, you have to fall for someone like Hazel. She is such a unique woman. We have a beautiful relationship that is so nurturing. She cares about my needs before her own. Question: What is the one thing that you would want everyone to remember about your wife? Dad: She cares and loves hard! She is a very loving person that would go to the end of the earth for anyone that she found it to be disrespectful. I could see your mind turning and you very sternly asked, “and what did you do?”. Well, I replied, “I did what you would have and paid for his groceries”. If I had not done that, I knew that there would have been trouble coming my way. What happened next was so you and so predictable that I could do nothing but laugh. You asked me if I got the name and address of the elderly man so that you could send him some money. Isn’t that something – why didn’t I think of that!! Mom – I thank you for your love, support, and the values that you have instilled in me. You gave me all of the tools needed to be a responsible, loving woman. Because of you I know how to live my life on my own terms, be strong, passionate, and forgiving. I thank you for teaching me that my voice is important and should NOT be silenced. You gave me the strength to not only stand up for myself, you also demanded that I stand up for others. You will always be my mother, role model, and best friend. If it were not for your guidance, I would not be who I am. I love you like a rock and I will see you later!!
Mom
Angela Iona Lynn Erby
cares about. She works hard for people she knows and loved or for those she didn’t know. Nobody is a stranger to her. She made a connection with just about everyone she met. She is honest and truthful; she does not believe in telling lies about anything nor does she like a liar. She is the epitome of a strong black woman who believes in what was
right. Hazel loves so many people and wants everyone to know it through her work and her words. She is not a WAS - she will always be an IS because she lives in the heart of those who truly knew and love her for who she is and what she has done. Her legacy will live on through all of us!
most everyone that knew her, she The Honorable Hazel M. Erby. TToowas me, she was “Mom”, my biggest
how you want to be treated and always remember that it is easier to be kind. As I sit and reflect on those last few weeks, days, and hours, I find myself smiling and thinking of the wonderful memories. Her strength, sense of humor and expressions of love and concern continued throughout her final days with us. I remember on one of those days, mom asked “What will you do without me?” I had no idea how to answer her at that moment. She caught me a little off guard and I knew my answer had to be one that would take away her worry. A day or so later, we were having our everyday talk and I gave her the answer to her question: “Mom, I will never have to live without you, you will always be with me.” She smiled really big and said…” That’s right pooh, I will ALWAYS be with you.” Mommy, I love you and miss you so much! I had the time of my life being with you! You are the best mommy, and friend a girl could ever ask for. Your words of encouragement, advice, and witty sense of humor will be missed but will never fade away. I am so grateful God chose me to be your daughter.
supporter, my loudest cheerleader and my personal hero. For as long as I can remember, I watched my mom work hard in the community, always putting others before herself. She has been the most phenomenal wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and surrogate mother to many of my friends. As a little girl, I can remember her and my dad dancing to Motown in the living room. I would watch them closely, smiling and waiting for my mom to grab my hand and place me on their feet as they finished singing and dancing. I remember the late night talks that led to us having a midnight breakfast and a day off from school. I also remember the smile on her face during every milestone and achievement I have experienced so far in my life. She was my voice of reason when things did not go as planned and she was the one that just simply got me. Mom had a way of developing lasting, meaningful relationships with everyone she met. She had a unique way of making everyone feel special. This is what I admire most. She would often tell me to treat people
Kristina Erby-Carr Lil - Hazel
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In the Spotlight
HAZEL ERBY TRIBUTE | STL SPOTLIGHT
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Safety, Peace and Warmth… A Return on Investment By Councilwoman Shalonda Webb
hen you step into a world different than you ever could W have imagine, you look for those eyes
that exude safety, ensures peace, the ones that give you a sense of warmth. Mrs. Hazel Erby has been that and so much more to me in such a short period of time. As I was beginning my life as a public servant leader, she was turning a page to a different journey. From the very first time we talked, she believed in me. No questions, no hesitation; just acceptance and support, from day one. I don’t know how we got there, but I remember saying “I just want to do right by people; we deserve so much better”. Her response, “you gonna be just fine; we got you”. And I haven’t looked back since. That bond of trust was sealed in that exact moment. She reminded me of my mother and grandmother in a perfect mix; kind and gentle with a firmness that didn’t mix words. Mrs. Erby’s authenticity and integrity couldn’t be faked nor compromised. When she helped, she expected nothing in return. If fact, I think her true joy was to help others and to see them happy. She never had angle nor aspired for a title. She only wanted to serve her community with honesty and excellence. I once heard a local leader say “What is your ROI? What is your Return on Investment”? Many of us stand and are able to be in leadership roles in our communities, schools, and churches because Mrs. Hazel Erby invested in us. She nurtured us with her words of wisdom. She led by an impeccable example of how serving the people is not to serve yourself. She showed us how true leaders command the respect Councilwoman Shalonda Webb
and attention of the room by simply entering with grace and kindness and never mumbling a word. It was never about her; it was always about the people she represented. Many of us who loved and cherished her, showered her with flowers while she could enjoy them. However, her legacy aligns with our ROI. Her return on investment in us is measured in how we serve our communities. Her ROI in us is how we respect every person no reverence of title, but by knowing that they are a child of God; that alone guarantees our kindness. Our ROI to Mrs. Hazel Erby is serving others with humility, for with humility comes wisdom. Mrs. Hazel Erby’s ROI in each of us is to ensure that as leaders we work to “do right by people and ensure our communities are better after we have served, because mediocrity and status quo is unacceptable. I wish I had more time to be under Mrs. Ebry’s tutelage, but every moment that she sacrificed with me I am forever grateful. Every pearl of wisdom she shared will be used to do what she exemplified best… serving and loving others. Thank you Mrs. Erby.
By Farrakhan Shegog
Hazel Erby when I had returned Iwithmet to St. Louis from college. I had moved my grandfather who had been
battling health scares in his home in Wellston. While away at college, Michael Brown was killed in Ferguson. There was so much activity on the ground that it forced me to travel back and forth from St. Louis to Tulsa to participate in protests and organizing. While making that 6 1/2-hour trip, I asked myself, “What are our “leaders” doing to ensure this doesn’t happen again. While trying to figure this out, I consistently kept running into one person, Hazel Erby. So, I began to research about her. I learned that she had been an advocate for quality education in University City. She organized parents to help the protect their children’s identities. Her involvement in politics made her the first African American woman elected to the St. Louis County Council and eventually the first African American to chair the council. In that capacity, she made sure minority rights were protected. Her passion for protecting the rights of minorities and the vulnerable was unmatched. The cornerstone of her political legacy is the young people she mentored and coached. Many of my neighborhood friends called her the mother of the neighborhood. So many young men and women admire and look up to Mrs.
Hazel. Her honor, integrity, and being unapologetic for it inspires us all. When I learned of Mrs. Hazel’s full work, I got closer and closer to her. I decided to run for Councilman in 2017 when I returned. I had no money and no support. When I reached out to Mrs. Hazel, she quickly became a mentor. She has been my champion ever since. She gave advice. She gave direction. And most of all she made me feel welcomed. After losing that race, she challenges me to stay involved. I did… and later became her partner as Committeeman. I am proud to have known her. I am proud to call her partner. I am proud to have made her proud. Her legacy lives on through our efforts of eliminating passive leadership and voting bases. I thank Mrs. Hazel for her mentorship, courage and leadership when we needed the most. My heartfelt condolences go out to the Erby family and all those who lived her. I am mindful of this scripture by the Apostle Paul in II Timothy 4:6-9, “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day--and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. Do your best to come to me quickly.”
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STL SPOTLIGHT | HAZEL ERBY TRIBUTE
cover coverstory
Hazel Erby
By Tim Person
Hazel Erby was a fierce advocate for minorities on the Stl County Council.
Leaves a Legacy of Passionate, Impactful Leadership
Councilwoman Erby posses for a picture with Sec. Hilary Clinton.
Louis has suffered a devastating loss with the Slastt.passing of an incredible stalwart whose impact will long into the future. On Friday July 2nd, former St.
Louis County Councilwoman and founder of the Fannie Lou Hamer Coalition, Hazel Erby, passed. Hazel is an iconic giant whose name is synonymous with causes that uplifted her community. Her impact was immeasurable, yet she never sought the spotlight or glory. Hazel’s legacy is the countless lives that she improved, supported and influenced. While it seemed she gave her entire life for her community and the causes she supported, she was also an incredible wife to her high school sweetheart Louis, Sr., and mother of three who had a wonderful, supportive family. She leaves us in far better shape than she found us. Hazel Erby was a product of St. Louis Public Schools (Vashon High School). She went on to attend Lincoln University and Harris-Stowe Teachers College. Over the years, she served in various capacities with several community-based organizations, including serving with multiple education related venues. Her community service ultimately connected her to politics and winning an election to become the University Township Committeewoman. In 2004, Hazel made history by becoming the 1st African American women to serve on the St. Louis County Council. As a Councilwoman, she was famously known as a relentless fighter for her district and fairness. Her passions were children, education, equity and women’s rights. After years of fighting, she finally passed landmark legislation that leveled the playing field for minorities and women. Her legislation would make it easier for them to access jobs and business opportunities with St. Louis County. Erby’s voice was never silent on these issues. Even as she moved into higher profile role with St. Louis County government, Hazel refused to relinquish her fight for offering a voice to those who the system had historically squashed. Hazel loved her people and never stopped placing them at the forefront of her decision making. One of Hazel’s greatest accomplishments was rallying the African American leadership of North County into an organized political body that spoke with one voice for the issues that affected all of the municipalities of North County. Under her leadership, the Fannie Lou Hamer Coalition put the political system on notice that they could no longer fragment communities into little inconsequential pieces. They spoke through one voice as one voice. She achieved what was thought unachievable – unity for small North County communities. Now, the Fannie Lou Hamer Coalition has even more purpose – keeping Hazel’s dream alive. Our region is special to have had such a champion in our mist. Hazel was far more than just a talking head or political leader. She genuinely loved the communities and people she fought for. She never had any preconceived roles, nor did she feel that she was too important for certain tasks. She always led with her heart and mind. She produced winners and legacies and most importantly, she inspired the next generations. Hazel was also a role model for the next generation of young women who are now assuming the reigns of leadership. They have been fortunate to have had her walk beside them. Hazel Erby’s legacy must be protected and her story must always be told. In the words of Hazel’s dear friend, the Honorable Betty Thompson who sadly passed away on Sunday, July 11, 2021, “we gotta, WAKE UP, GET UP, SIT UP and VOTE UP….” And get something done. Hazel Erby will forever live in the hearts and minds of the people of St. Louis County.
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STL SPOTLIGHT | HAZEL ERBY TRIBUTE
Reflections
Marie Erby, wife, mother, Hfriend,azel grandmother, great-grandmother, mentor, and inspiration. You
are those and more, but to me, you are Ma-Ma. You are the woman I look up to, the strong and caring person that I inspire to be, and now you are my sweet guardian angel. You are the reason why I am so passionate about helping the community, whether it is with children, volunteering for multiple functions, or Project Homeless Connect. I will miss your laugh, those beautiful big brown eyes, and most of all your smile (because we all knew what that smile meant). I will miss baking pound cakes with you even though the last time we
may have used too much butter (in your opinion). The cakes turned out delicious! Ma-Ma you have touched so many people with your LOVE, STRENGTH, WISDOM, CONVICTION, and BEAUTY. Your legacy, memories, sacrifices, care and love will always live on within me and all of those that you have touched. I thank you for EVERYTHING! I thank you for loving Paw-Paw, your kids, and grandkids unconditionally because you taught us the meaning of family! I love you now and always! Your #1 Aliah Marie Erby
Ma-Ma
Marie Erby is my GodmothHwasazel er. No, she was not there when I baptized, but she was definitely
My Aunt, The Last of the Legendary Monarchs y name is Louis A. Williams, a M nephew of my late & Beloved Aunt Hazel & Uncle Louis Erby Sr.,
who both nicknamed me “Butch”. I’d first like to thank you both for your generosity and heart felt consideration in putting this Tribute together for all of us that truly loved and knew Aunt Hazel, “ The Last of the Legendary Monarchs”. Aunt Hazel is/was the youngest of the three sisters. Aunt Mattie was the oldest that proceeded Grandma, aunt Hazel and my mother, Lela Mae “I don’t Play “ Williams, the middle sister that passed away almost 3 years ago. My mother (Lela Mae) named me Louis (after Uncle Louis Erby) because of how cool he was and for what he represented then and now. A rare good responsible man who lived his creed. Well, that sort of started something because there are now six (6) Louis’ throughout the family. It was Aunt Hazel who nicknamed me “Butch” because I was a 10lb exceptionally handsome and strong baby. She had to change my diapers while laying me on the floor. (LOL).
My mother (Lela Mae) was always protective and concerned for Aunt Hazel, especially when Aunt Hazel decided to share her passion for family and communities took it to another level, a Political Servant. My mother and Aunt hazel would often talk about issues as well as safety. (Mom was serious and didn’t play around when it came to family safety). After my family and I moved to Michigan, I’d always keep in contact and make sure that when I returned home call and visit with my favorite Aunt & Uncle. Although the St. Louis area has lost a “Gentle Giant” and our family the “Last of the Legendary Monarchs, her Love, Works and Contagious Personality will live on. She was truly the “Glorious Glue” of our extended augmented Family! Did I mention she changed my diapers on the floor…? (LOL)! Thank You for all the unconditional Love, now Rest in Him! Thank you God for Aunt Hazel, “Last of the Legendary Monarchs”! Respectfully, Louis A. Williams (Butch)
sent by God to be in my life. I think He knew my road was going to be bumpy, starting with the death of my mother, followed by the death of my father four years later, both while I was still a teenager. She stepped right in and never missed a beat, loving me unconditionally. She gently guided me back on course when I made wrong turns and lovingly told me the hard truths. She loved me when I wasn’t very lovable; when I was bratty. She understood my pain. She loved me up close and from a distance. She was my cheerleader, even when I didn’t know she was singing my praises. She was there to dry my tears when I hurt, and there to celebrate every milestone in my life-big or small. She was Granny Gran to my
rs. Hazel Erby. Wow! Just saying M her name out loud gives me chills. What a phenomenal woman. When you think about the word “legacy” nobody left a better example of how to cement a legacy than she did. The true definition of a black Queen. No words could truly describe how amazing she was. I met Mrs. Erby when I was in the 6th grade (I believe that was 1985). I went to school with her daughter Krissy who has been a lifelong friend of mine. As An adult I would often refer to Mrs Erby as “Ma” as she was certainly a mother figure for me once I lost my own dear Mother to Cancer. She was so many things to so many people. A dedicated wife, Mother, grandmother. A community leader/trailblazer. A woman who would not take no for an answer. She would literally give you the shirt
children, and their children too. I will never understand why she loved me so, especially when I didn’t deserve it, but she left an indelible imprint on my life. She helped mold me into the wife, mother and person I am today. Hazel Erby will forever be my role model, my moral compass, and most of all, my Godmother. I thank God for sending her to me, for allowing me to have her in my life for the past 40+ years, and for all of the blessings in my life that can be attributed to her presence. I can never fully express how much she has meant to me nor the depth of my love for her, but I will do everything in my power to emulate her goodness, selflessness, and unconditional love for everyone in her life. My life is full of her love, which I am determined to share-just like she did. It is the greatest tribute to her. Sydney Moore
off her back. I have seen her go out of her way to help multitudes of people. All she knew was how to fight for what is right. I have lost count on how many times I’ve reached out to this beautiful soul when I was in need of one thing or another. Whether it was help with my business, the activism we were both tied to, my personal life, my Cancer battle etc. It did not matter what the issue was, she was always there to encourage and help lead me to an answer to my problem. She was so free and open with sharing her knowledge, wisdom and her resources of which she had a wealth of. She had the most calming voice and sincere smile. It hurts to think that I will never meet another person like her. She was absolutely a one of one and I will miss her perpetually. Love you Ma! Orlando Watson
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Tributes
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Tribute To the Honorable Hazel Erby C
was always the person to call. Hor justazel When I struggled with decisions needed to talk about some
issues I called Hazel. She always had a calming level headed approach that I now emulate. Even when she got upset she had a way of still having a calming effect. There is no doubt in my mind that I picked up this trait from her. She taught me what it is to be a true
public servant and not just a politician. She led by example. She showed up to everything and if she could not make it she would call you and tell you why. There was no such thing as a no call no show with her. She was the ideal elected official. When I was starting out in politics there was no better example to follow than Hazel Erby. Mayor Reggie Jones
ouncilwoman Hazel Erby had a certain aura about her. She was a leader in every sense of the word. She had the personality and ability to get along with others. If personality is how other people see you, more importantly is how you see yourself, what’s inside your heart. We all know that Councilwoman Hazel Erby had a great loving heart. Councilwoman Hazel Erby will be truly missed. With Great Respect and Love, Sharon Pace, City Of Northwoods, Mayor
Tribute To the Honorable Hazel Erby learned that people will forget Iyou’vewhatdid, you say, people will forget what but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou The Honorable Hazel Erby had a way of showing people that they were important to her. She was a trailblazer in leadership in our community, always concerned with improving the betterment of the people. Throughout this region, Hazel’s leadership reigned, and she didn’t hesitate to roll up her sleeves and get to work in the community. During her leadership of District
1 of St. Louis County she fought for equal rights for minorities and diversity. When a constituent felt they were being discriminated against for housing, health care and/or jobs she was the first person to stand up for justice. Hazel always encouraged everyone to try to work together for a stronger community. Addressing the Social Economic barriers of this community was on the fore front of her agenda. We are going to miss Hazel’s wisdom and caring attitude for the region. Mayor Ella M. Jones, Ferguson, MO
n memory of a life well lived. Created Ishine to love and to be loved. Created to with an inspiring, one-of-a-kind light in our community. Mayor James McGee
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STL SPOTLIGHT | HAZEL ERBY TRIBUTE
In the Spotlight
“To know that even one life has changed because YOU lived. This is to have succeeded” – Ralph Waldo Emerson y life is FOREVER changed because you lived. The first time we M ever spoke, I asked you to speak at my
very first Ward meeting in 2006. Before that, I only admired you from afar. After that day, I saw what everyone else saw. A graceful, kind, nurturing, amazing human that loved in spite of and not because of. You will always be my #1 Councilwoman. For those that have had the absolute honor of being close to her, they can attest to her greatness. Hazel Erby wasn’t the biggest person in the room and her voice was soft, yet when she walked into the room, she commanded attention. Not because she wanted it, but because God blessed her with the spirit of good. She was always the reluctant politician as she had to be pushed into the spotlight. But once she was in the space of leadership, she ALWAYS did what was right, not what was politically expedient. All the while, she was consistently gracious and forgiving, even to her detriment. If you fell out with Hazel Erby, YOU fell out with her, not the other way around. A human that will always fight for truth and right, yet does it with such love, no matter the hell that’s going
on around her, is God given and here to teach us to live in such a way. As my mentor and friend, she was everything. She saw things in me that I didn’t always see, and when she acknowledged anything I did, she did so loudly and proudly. I stood in awe of her ability to remain calm in the face of chaos. I still stand in awe in her ability to forgive, even when forgiveness was never asked of her. I pray every day to be half of who she was and will be remembered as. Her spirit will be in everything I do until I take my final breath. I am eternally grateful to the entire Erby family for sharing her with me and the countless individuals that have had the pleasure of knowing her. I know that you didn’t always want her in certain spaces at certain times, but she was always persistent and insistent. Just know that in every space that she occupied, she left an air of love, acceptance and peace. I love you all and I pray your comfort. I will end this tribute as I have ended most of my recent text messages to you. I love you Hazel Erby. That is all… Love, Shonte Harmon-Young
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A Glance at@No1councilwoman
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STL SPOTLIGHT | HAZEL ERBY TRIBUTE
Honor, Loyalty and Friendship
A Tribute to Hazel My Big Sister from Another Mother
Sandi Colquitt
struggling with what to say IEven’mbecause I don’t know where to start. now, tears are running down my
face when I think about you and us not being able to speak to each other every day! How can I conceivably communicate how beautiful, wonderful and an irreplaceable woman you are? How can I explain your big heart, your con-
tagious love you had for everyone you met. And not to mention the amazing wife, mother, grandmother and friend you are. Well, let me try to sum it up in two words, PHENOMENAL WOMAN! Hazel Erby was a beautiful soul inside and out. She saw the beauty in everyone. Hazel didn’t respond to gossip about people or situations. She took her time to understand a problem
to form her own thoughts and opinions and she established a relationship with people so she could speak from her heart not by what people had told her about someone. It was her own opinion. Hazel found something to love in all of us. Hazel brought sass and class to whatever she set out to do, especially in the St. Louis County Government. She could be soft-spoken sometimes; never bullied or cowed or afraid to speak to her mind. Always, was a truth teller, her words were kind, never said or did anything out of meanness or malice even when others were mean to her and I wanted to take them down for her. She was always generous with her grace. Merciful in everything because she was always her true self!!
Words cannot describe how much I will miss my sister Hazel. I feel as if we still had so much left to talk about and for you to teach me, to give one another, to share with one another, projects that still need to be completed. Grandchildren to brag on. And now we don’t have the opportunity to do that together. I promise to continue what you’ve taught me about service and giving. I will continue to help, to lift, to serve and support the community like we have done for the past 30 years. I promise to continue to work The Homeless Project and the female returning citizens program. Hazel, you are and will be greatly missed. Thank you for loving me and my children and supporting me in all my endeavors!! I will continue to work day in and day out to try and ease my heartbreak and always remember that you loved me and I truly, truly loved you. Rest well until we meet again!
HAZEL ERBY TRIBUTE | STL SPOTLIGHT
Tributes
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She even held me as I cried shortly after having Amir and sternly told me to never doubt myself and that I could do anything I set my mind and heart to. She was always one call away, whether I needed advice, a favor, to share news and to say I love you. It’s definitely going to be a transition-having to call to Heaven now to tell her I love her, but I find comfort knowing exactly where she is and how to reach her. Thank you for the 32 years I had with you, Granny Gran and I hope I continue making you proud! I love you! Jess ( Jessica Moore) y Granny Gran was an angel on this earth. In adM dition to taking on the role of council woman, inspiration, protector, and confidante to many, she took
on the role of grandmother when she had no obligation to do so. My siblings and I have always benefitted from her love, support, and nurturing ways. She has always been there for every important moment and while her presence will look different moving forward, I take comfort in knowing that she is no longer in pain and left this place knowing she was loved and her legacy will be carried forward by all of us who love her. Granny Gran, I thank you for leaving this place better off and for paving the way towards a better future for Chloe. We love and miss you. Rest now, we got this. Courtney E. Hildebrandt
Tribute to the Living Legacy of Momma Hazel M. IlifenErby. My spirit, soul and mind will forever live the of your legacy. I will always hold in my heart the s a girl, growing up in University City, along the Alearned way, we had many “other mothers,” And yes, we something for them all. However, the countless lessons learned in Mrs. Hazel Erby’s home, as a child, have stuck with me. In fact, much of who she was, is woven into who I am, as a mother, grandmother, community leader, and friend. For her, I am forever grateful. She truly was my very first “other mother.” Ma-Ma is what we called her, because my son, Tres, her first grandchild, had the honor of creating this name for her, and ultimately for the grandkids whom followed. She was an exemplar of how to treat everyone with love, honor, dignity, and respect. Because she planted these seeds in her children, and watered them, her spirit will continue to grow and be kept alive through us all. I say, “us” because that’s how she treated me, as one of her own. Never using the term- daughter in law, or ex- when referring to me, was a simple, yet powerful gesture of love. The last line, of the last text message, Ma-Ma sent to me was, “You will always be my daughter.” Jennifer “Erby” Johnson
azel Erby was a true non ego bound leader, hard to HHazel find in leaders, much less politicians. was a unique, outstanding and bright star in
politics, a Community Builder and a friend for 25 plus years. I got to know her through my life partner. As someone who has worked in politics and community development for 50 years after returning from the Army I knew her as a leader, who listened. Also, as a force to be dealt with, a servant of the community, a strong voice for doing the “right thing”. That was her
goal, not another office or position. Even at the end of her life she was apologizing for calling to wish me a happy birthday, one day late. She was always taking care of others. Her memory is a blessing as a friend, a model and supporter of others. She will be dearly missed. Eric Friedman, University City, Missouri
words of wisdom you shared with me and live my life as your spirit lives in me. Your touch, your voice, your fighting loving manner will be with me forever. I still hear your loving voice Momma Hazel. Thank You, Momma Hazel for loving, guiding, and teaching me all your loving wisdom. Momma Hazel, you live forever in my heart. Always and Forever, Momma Hazel. Thanks to the Erby Family, Louis, Sr., Angela, Kristina, Louis, Jr., Grandchildren and Family for sharing the Love of Momma Hazel. Alderwoman Alease Dailes
was lucky to get to know Hazel when we were both Ireduce on a committee to oversee Federal grant funds to rs. Hazel Erby is a pioneer and strong role model drug and alcohol abuse in University City. She M that stood gap using her voice to fight for equality didn’t like to rush into decisions and always asked a lot and justice. Your legacy will live on through all the of questions. As I got to know her, I realized one of her best qualities was what an extraordinary good listener she was. If she had any faults, it was her inability to say no to doing anything for anyone. No matter how much she had to do, if someone needed her, she would drop what she was doing to help them. She loved her family dearly, but she treated her friends and constituents as if they were family too. I will miss her friendship, her advice and her political insight, but most of all, I’ll miss her smile. With love to my friend Hazel, Miriam G Wilhelm
y Granny Gran! Hazel Erby saw my mother as M a daughter and by default, my siblings and I as her grandchildren. Growing up, besides my biological
grandmother, she was the only other grandparent I’ve ever known. I have many memories of her and all the love she has shown me over the years. More recently, when I had my first child, she voiced how proud of me she was and that she knew I would be a great mother.
people you blessed with your spirit. I thank God for blessing us with you. Mayor Michele DeShay
characteristic that I most admired in CouncilTmadehewoman Erby was her unique ability to listen. She people who had historically been excluded from
discussions believe that they had finally been heard. Her deep understanding of the challenges facing communities of color in Saint Louis County and her ability to consistently represent her constituents with integrity, intelligence and transparency set the example for citizens of all ethnicities and political perspectives. Hazel did not have to agree with people to serve them. She listened to everyone. She worked for everyone. She was a tireless advocate who will be missed by all who knew her. Her history of valiant public service for the citizens of Saint Louis County and the State of Missouri will set an example for those who follow on the pathways that she forged. Victoria Valle, Chairman of the Board of Trustees
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