Hazelteen Vernon's Obituary
Hazelteen Vernon, a devoted wife, mother, educator, entrepreneur, and woman of faith was born on January 21, 1946, to Sarah May Moore. Hazel lived a life defined by grace, wisdom, and an unwavering faith in God.
A woman of elegance and strength, she carried herself with dignity, always dressing to impress. Her presence commanded respect, as she was known for her caring heart, keen wisdom, and no-nonsense attitude. She touched countless lives as an educator, mentor and later as a restaurant business owner alongside her beloved husband, Frank Vernon. Together, they built not only a successful business, but a beautiful life filled with love and adventure. They celebrated 56 wonderful years of marriage and traveling the world side by side.
A proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, she furthered her education at LeMoyne-Owen College and later earned her Master’s degree from Trevecca Nazarene University (Nashville). Her dedication to education and lifelong learning was a testament to her commitment to excellence. When she was growing up, the most respected people in her community were teachers. Hazel knew early on that goal was to become a teacher and give back to the community. She started in special education with Willie Herenton being her principal at LaRose and then working her way up to being a respected English teacher at White Station and Lanier Jr. High. While working as a teacher, she worked at The Bar-B-Q Shop while she and her husband was growing the business. She provided structure for the restaurant and was well respected by the employees. Even after retiring from teaching, she handled all the shipping and the placement of The Dancing Pigs Bar-B-Q Sauce & Dry Seasoning in the Kroger and Superlo grocery stores.
Hazel was a faithful servant of God, a dedicated member of Temple of Deliverance, where she worshipped under the leadership of Bishop G.E. Patterson and now Bishop Milton Hawkins. She remained steadfast in her faith until her final days. She was a beloved friend to many, including her cherished "Lunch Bunch", whose companionship she deeply treasured.
Above all, Hazel shared a deep and abiding love with her husband, Frank Vernon, her partner in life for 56 wonderful years. Their marriage was a testament to love, faith, and companionship that was filled with laughter, adventure, and an unbreakable bond. Also, she was a devoted mother to her son, Eric Vernon, whom she loved deeply and with all her heart. Her guidance, love, and unwavering support will remain a beacon of light for him and all who knew her.
Hazelteen was preceded in death by her mother, Sarah Moore; her brothers, Roosevelt Moore, Curtis Moore, Johnny Moore, and Charles Moore; and her sisters, Eula Brown, Mary Lee Morton, Jearlean Harper, and Velma Moore.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Frank Vernon; her devoted son, Eric Vernon; nieces: Cassandra Moore, Pleshetta Hunt, Tamara Godwin James, Charlena (Jerry) Taylor, and Charlotte (Antonio) Isabel; great-nephews: Michael Godwin and Jerry Taylor Jr.& Johnny Moore Jr.; and great-nieces: Sinclair and September Isabel, Ramesha.James, and Dominique Townsend. She will also be deeply missed by the cherished friends, including the “Lunch Bunch”.
Hazel passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy of faith, wisdom, and love will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25: 23
Services will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 11:00am in the Fireside Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Entombment will follow in Memorial Park Mausoleum.
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