Hazel Louise Bates gained her wings on May 8, 2026.  She was born on May 8, 1933 in Tatum, Texas to Carlton and Lillie Mae Pleasant (Jeter).

Hazel graduated from Mayflower High School where she played basketball and was also a majorette in the band.

She later met and married John W. Bates.  To this union they had four daughters; Pamela, Angela, Sheila and Cheryl.

Hazel joined Shiloh Baptist Church in Garland, Texas where she was a faithful member and sang in the choir.  She worked for LTV Steel Company for years and worked for the Garland Independent School District for a short period of time.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband: John W. Bates; Daughter: Pamela Bates (Lewis); Great grandchild: Nuri Fuller; Sisters: Lorene Harkless; Annie V. Sanders; Oenar McBride; Barbara Derrick; Brother: Cecil Jeter; and Aunt: Mattie Robinson.

Hazel leaves to cherish her memories; Brother: Billy Jeter of Garland, Texas; Daughters: Angela Bates; Cheryl Starnes both of Garland, Texas; Sheila Thomas (Lawson) of Rowlett, Texas; Grand Children: Jamaal Bates (Bounly); Cory Bates; Kenneth Williams (April); Billy Fuller Jr. (Amber); Fallon Bates and Matlyn Fuller; Great-Great Grand Children: Corey Jr.; Gabriel, David, Mycah, Elijah, Aunisty, Arianna, Symalahn, Noelani, Kane, Mahilah (Poo Poo), Kayliana, Kyaire, and Zayden; Great-Great Grandchild: Alyrianna; and host of relatives and friends.