How do you cut off old co-workers?

I resigned from the gov in 2007. There were some people that I do not want to converse with or share my personal business ever again in life. However, we had a sheet with everyone's address and phone number. How can I break off -- keep away without hurting their feeling. I want to break off because I am going through an educational failure that has brought some depression and disappointment into my life. Right now I want to be alone and live a new life. Is this selfish?

No its not selfish at all.
And just stop talking to them.If you see their number on your phone don't answer.
I have cut myself off from a few coworkers and some were mean to me when I was there.I resigned from The Renaissance at South Shore Nursing Home.I am at a better nursing home. I just don't talk to some of my old co workers.I am only in touch with a few.
If I do decide to visit any residents at my old nursing home, I know to go on a day when most of the negative coworkers aren't there.
Its not selfish.Some of them old coworkers on these jobs are poison anyway.

If they want to invite you to a gathering, you could say that you have another obligation or just say you won't be able to attend. If they just call to say hello, just say you were on your way out the door and you can't talk for long. This will allow you to cut the conversation short. The other option is to keep your answering machine on for awhile. You might want to keep in touch with a couple of people. They might be good contacts or references.

Change your phone number, then you need no explanation.