Ryland Coleman Hazelwood, 89, of Toano, VA, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025.
Born and raised in western James City County, Ryland graduated from Toano High School and lived a life rooted in hard work, service, and love for the outdoors. He served in the Virginia National Guard and worked for Dow Chemical for 11 years before returning to his roots as a farmer and commercial fisherman, following in his father’s footsteps. While many retire in their 60s, Ryland continued working into his late years, serving as the property manager for a local game reserve for the past 30 years.
Ryland was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in fishing, crabbing, and bird hunting. A loyal fan of the Washington Commanders and the New York Yankees, he rarely missed a game. He loved the simple pleasures of life-hosting friends and family for fried catfish and steamed crabs fresh from local waters, watching his beloved bird dogs out in the field hunting and pointing at quail and chuckers. He especially enjoyed spending time with his longtime friend Larry White.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Velasco and Ruby Hazelwood, and his brother, Kenneth. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Brenda; his son, Ryland Jr. (Anita); stepson, James (Robin); and grandchildren, Ryan, Ella, and Sophie. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Toano Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department and the wonderful doctors and nurses at Sentara Hospital for their dedicated care and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the James City-Bruton Volunteer Fire Department, 3135 Forge Rd., Toano, VA 23168.
Ryland’s presence, laughter, and stories will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
