Mrs. Hazel Sparks Mayes

It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my mother Hazel Sparks Mayes. On July 21, 1950 Hazel was born to Charlie and Hattie Sparks in Wharton, Texas. She was one of three girls in a family with 13 children. Hazel lived the majority of her life in Houston, Texas. She dabbled in several professions on her life journey such as a beautician, she owned a record store and helped run a catering company, amongst other things.

However, she seemed to find her calling as a governess and house keeper in the 90’s. Hazel played an impactful role in the lives of several families. Having an especially tremendous influence on the children of these families with her overwhelming love and infectious disposition. Ultimately she embraced these families as her own and they in turn embraced her enthusiastically.

In a word a Hazel could be described as a lioness. She was fierce and fearless when needed and at the same time she cared deeply for those who were important to her. She was not without flaws and she faced many challenges in life. However, she knew who she was and she walked her path with dignity and grace.

She was a wonderful loving, caring, mother to two sons Howard J. Farris and Johnny R. Mayes Jr. She enjoyed loving and spending precious moments with her grandchildren and her family. Hazel returned home to God on March 15, 2025, at her home in Houston, she was 74 years old.

She was preceded in death by her Father: Charlie Sparks
Mother: Hattie Sparks; Brothers: Arthur Sparks, Carl Sparks, Lonnie B. Sparks, Ernest Sparks; Sister: Darcy Mackey and Son: Howard J. Farris