Francis "Nicey" Hazen, 85, a businessman and former mayor of Cumberland and Neon, died Thursday.

The U.S. Air Force veteran of World War II also served the community as chairman of the board of directors of Southeast Kentucky Technical and Community College, as a member of the Southeast Education Foundation and as a board member of the Kentucky Mine Museum.

"I don't know anyone who has had a more positive impact than Mr. Hazen has, and it's not just for the Tri-City area and for Harlan County, but it's for the region and state," said Bruce Ayers, president of SKCTC. "He served with Senator (Dee) Huddleston for a number of years and was very instrumental in bringing projects and programs to eastern Kentucky.

"His service to the college has been outstanding. Because he was so well-known in the political arena, when he went to Frankfort and other places to lobby for the college, he was always welcomed with open arms. People knew him and respected him, and he was able to accomplish so much. He dearly loved the college, Harlan County and this region, and there's just no question he will be sorely missed by all of us."

A complete obituary can be found on Page 2.