William Charles Hazelton, 82, of Monmouth Beach, NJ, passed away peacefully at his home on December 2, 2024.

Born and raised in Jersey City, Bill graduated from St. Michael's High School and attended St. Peter's College, where he played baseball and was a member of the ROTC program. After college, Bill served in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Ft. Hood, Texas for 3 years before moving back to NJ and starting a career in education. He proudly remained in the U.S. Army Reserves, serving for over 20 years and retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Bill spent 40 years as a teacher and Vice Principal at Union High School, where he also served as the basketball and tennis coach. He was affectionately known as "Coach Haze" by his students and athletes, a title that reflected the deep respect and admiration he earned throughout his career. In 1991, Bill became an assistant basketball coach at Christian Brothers Academy, where he enjoyed continued success until his retirement from coaching in 2022.

Bill had a deep love for the town he lived in, Monmouth Beach, where he spent countless hours enjoying the Jersey Shore at the Little Monmouth Beach Club. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees, college basketball and crossword puzzles. Over the years he made lasting memories with his many friends, fellow coaches, colleagues, and student athletes, reminiscing about old stories and enjoying a good meal whenever possible.

William is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; his children, William Hazelton and his wife Theresa, Scott Hazelton and his wife Amanda; his stepson, Nicholas Afflitto and his wife Sarah; his stepson Christopher and his wife Michele; his grandchildren, Michael, Emma, Ella, Lily, Chloe, and Charlie; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A memorial gathering will be held on Wednesday, December 11 ^th from 3:00-7:00 PM at the Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch, NJ, 07740. A service will be offered the following day at the Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home at 10:00 AM. An entombment will follow at Woodbine Cemetery in Oceanport.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Christian Brothers Academy Fund or the Seton Hall Prep Annual Fund.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who have supported Bill throughout his life. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.