The Funeral Service for Jacob Murray Halzel will be available for live streaming (and after) beginning at 11:00 AM on Monday, February 10, 2025 via the following link:
https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/a25028944160211
WORCESTER - Jacob Murray Halzel, 24, the beloved son of Gary L. and Betsy A. (Lyon) Halzel, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester.
Jacob was born and raised in Worcester. Despite facing a diagnosis of Lissencephaly which left him severely mentally and physically disabled, his sweet, gentle spirit left an unforgettable impact on all who encountered him. Jacob's heart was as pure as gold, and his beautiful countenance and innocence radiated the love of God in every interaction, from teachers and caregivers to doctors and nurses, family and friends. Everybody loved this precious young man.
Though doctors initially predicted that Jacob's life would be short, he defied the odds, living an unexpectedly long and happy life of 24 years, despite many, many difficult health challenges, blessing his family, friends, and everyone around him.
Besides his parents, Jacob is survived by his beloved siblings: Zachary Halzel of Cambridge, Jeremy Halzel of Westfield, Melody Halzel and her longtime boyfriend Chris Molineux of Honolulu, HI, Hillary Morales and her husband James of Westboro, and Naomi Halzel of Lowell. He is also deeply missed by his maternal grandmother, Joan (Flanzbaum) Lyon and her longtime partner, Ed Goldberg of Sarasota, FL; nieces, Maya and Ari, as well as his beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Jacob's passing leaves a profound emptiness in our hearts, yet his memories will forever warm our souls, reminding us of the precious gift of love, life, and his enduring spirit.
A funeral service to celebrate Jacob's life will be held at 11 am on Monday, February 10, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. Burial will follow at B'nai B'rith Cemetery in Worcester. Shiva will be held at Congregation Ruach Israel, 754 Greendale Ave, Needham, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Memorial contributions may be made in Jacob's name to Congregation Ruach Israel, 754 Greendale Ave, Needham, MA 02492