May 4, 2026
Published in the Guthrie News Leader - May 13, 2026
Patty Lynn Hazlewood, 79, a brilliant woman loved by many, passed away on May 4, 2026. She is survived by her loving wife and life partner of 35 years, Cindy Ward; their granddaughter, whom they raised as their daughter from the age of four, Jordan (Dick) Milam; and the extended Wheeler family.
Patty was a dedicated community leader whose impact on Guthrie, Oklahoma, will be felt for generations. She helped lay the groundwork as one of the founders of God’s Food Bank in Guthrie, serving for many years on its Board of Directors to ensure families in the community continued receiving the support they needed.
She also served as President of the American Legion Auxiliary for many years, helping continue the Soldier Boxes initiative, engaging local youth in community service, and encouraging participation in ALA Oklahoma Girls and Boys State programs. Patty further served her community as a member of the 60th City Council, representing Ward III and advocating to ensure the voices of the people were heard and their rights protected.
In addition, Patty was an active member and former President of Guthrie’s Catholic Daughters, where she helped lead the organization’s annual rummage sale and supported countless community efforts. She considered it a great honor to serve and left the organization knowing it was in good hands for years to come.
Before her many years of community outreach and service, Patty was a woman deeply devoted to the arts. From a young age, she practiced photography, learning to develop film in darkrooms and mastering the art of capturing meaningful moments for others. Her passion and talent led her to graduate from the New York Institute of Photography with a Master’s in Photography.
She used that education to travel throughout Central America alongside archaeologist John Pitzer, documenting Mayan ruins and history through her lens. Her work earned recognition in Who’s Who in Photography in 1991–1992. During this time, she opened her own photography studio in Guthrie, Oklahoma, where she captured not only portraits and headshots, but also the hearts of those she worked with. Later, she partnered with her wife in their studio, traveling and providing photography services to many throughout the region.
Patty approached every part of her life with passion — whether through photography, community outreach, or the love she gave to those closest to her. In true Patty fashion, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her memory to God’s Food Bank in Guthrie, Oklahoma.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church (411 N Elm St., Guthrie, OK 73044) with Rev. Fr. James Wickersham officiating on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow at Summit View Cemetery (1808 N. Pine St., Guthrie, OK 73044).
Services are under the direction of Hayes Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at hayesfh. com.