Obituary of Hazel Jones
Ms. Hazel Elizabeth Jones
November 22, 1938 – February 22, 2026
Hazel Elizabeth Jones was born on November 22, 1938, to the union of Howard Jones
and Christine Gordon. She began her journey surrounded by family and love, which
would become the foundation of her beautiful life.
In 1942, Hazel and her family relocated from New Jersey to Rochester, New York,
where she would plant deep roots and build a lasting legacy. She attended Our Lady of
Mercy and later Franklin High School, forming friendships and memories that would
carry her through the years.
In the summer of 1956, Hazel met Willie B. Washington. From that union, two beloved
children were born, Cathy and Curtis Washington. Family was the heart of Hazel’s
world. She poured her love, wisdom, and strength into each generation, always making
sure her family knew they were cherished.
Hazel worked faithfully for many years at Harris Corporation until her well-earned
retirement. She carried herself with quiet strength, dedication, and pride in everything
she did.
Raised in the Episcopal faith, Hazel was a devoted member of Saint Simon’s Episcopal
Church in Rochester, New York. Her faith remained her anchor and guiding light
throughout her life. Through every season, she leaned on her belief in God, and it
carried her with grace.
Hazel found joy in simple and meaningful things. She loved spending time with her
friends and family, especially sitting on her porch, catching up, sharing stories, and
enjoying laughter that filled the air. Those porch conversations were more than
moments — they were memories in the making.
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, Hazel peacefully answered the Lord’s call and went
home to be with Him. Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice knowing she has
received her eternal rest.
Hazel was preceded in death by her father, Howard Jones; her mother, Christine
Gordon; her grandmother, Hazel Gordon; her sister, Yvonne Jackson; and her great-
granddaughter, Trinity Dempsey.
She leaves to cherish her loving memory her longtime companion, Edward Bailey; her
devoted children, Cathy Washington and Curtis Washington (Regina); her niece, Beryl
Bright; her honorary daughter, Whitney Booth; her beloved grandchildren, Tanisha Lee,
Toya Robinson (Namath), Brandon Hayden, Chariek and Asia Ball; six treasured great-
grandchildren; her dear friends Dot Jones and Helen Heath and a host of extended
family and friends whose lives were forever touched by her love.
Hazel’s life was a testament to faith, family, strength, and unwavering love. She leaves
behind a legacy of resilience, grace, and devotion that will continue to shine through
each of us.
A Celebration of Life will be held on March 7th at 11:00 a.m. at Church of Love Faith Center, 700 Exchange Blvd. Visitation will take place from 9:00–11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery.
The family invites all who knew and loved Ms. Jones to share fond memories below. Flowers may be sent directly to Church of Love.