Hazel Marie Davis Henderson

Hazel Marie Davis Henderson, born on September 9, 1934, in Franklin County, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at home. She was the daughter of George Nelson Davis and Lera Willis Davis of Ferrum, VA. Hazel was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 67 years, James W. Henderson; her brothers, George Davis (Margaret), Charles Davis (Marie), and Harry Davis (Mary Evelyn); and her special sister, Thelma D. Price. She is survived by her beloved children, Mark Henderson (Chris), Jill Prillaman (Stevie Mitchell), and Amy Henderson (Bill Baskett). Hazel also leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Davis Prillaman (Beca), Tyler Henderson (Skyler), Ashley Henderson (Michael Shuler), Lindsey Blake (Tim), Anna Duke (Tyler), and Will Henderson; and treasured great-grandchildren: Averie, Emmet, Saylor, Oliver, Spencer, James, Harper, baby Hazel, and soon-to-arrive Elowen. Hazel was also blessed with many wonderful nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as dear, decades-long friendships with special friends including Geraldine and Suzanne. A graduate of Ferrum High School, Hazel went on to attend National Business College and began her career working in a bank. After Jim returned home from the Korean War, the two met on a group date and quickly knew they had found something special. They married just over a year later, beginning a love story that would span 67 years. Together, they built a family, and Hazel devoted herself wholeheartedly to caring for the people she loved most. Although Hazel once dreamed of life in the big city, she and Jim made their home in Rocky Mount, where she created a warm, welcoming, and beautiful place for her husband, children, and grandchildren. She had a gift for making a house feel like home, filling it with love, comfort, and the unmistakable care of a devoted mother. Her family will always remember her wonderful cooking, especially her famous macaroni and cheese, and the joy she found in preparing meals that brought everyone together. She was also an incredible gardener who took great pride in her flowers and plants, tending to them right up until the end. Hazel’s faith was a guiding light throughout her life. She loved her church and found great joy in attending services, and being part of a loving church community. Hazel was known for her sense of style and the way she always put herself together with elegance and care. She took pride in how she presented herself to the world and encouraged those she loved to always put their best foot forward. More than anything, she will be remembered as a deeply loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, wife, sister, aunt, and friend - a woman whose life was well lived and whose love left a lasting imprint on all who knew her. A church service celebrating Hazel’s life will be held at Rocky Mount United Methodist Church on Sunday, September 20, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Keith Vernon officiating. Interment will be private at Franklin Memorial Park. The family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to Rocky Mount United Methodist Church (35 North Main Street, Rocky Mount, VA 24151) or Franklin Carilion Hospice (453 South Main Street, Rocky Mount, VA 24151) are appreciated. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.