Hazel Henderson

Rochester – Hazel Henderson, 86, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family after a period of declining health.

Born on May 20, 1939, in Rochester, NH, Hazel was the daughter of the late John and Esther (Souza) Smith. Hazel and Eugene celebrated 69 years of marriage together, where they built a life centered on love for their family.

Hazel was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She worked for many years at Mayberry Shoe and was affectionately known throughout the community as “The Pie Lady,” a name she earned by baking homemade pies for several local restaurants. A big fan of the Boston Red Sox, Hazel rarely missed a game and enjoyed cheering them on whenever she could. She also found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Hazel loved bird watching in her backyard, especially spotting cardinals, which brought her peace and happiness.

Hazel had a gift for crocheting and lovingly made blankets for each of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—keepsakes that will continue to bring warmth and comfort for generations. Her home was always open and filled with warmth, laughter, and love.

She is survived by her loving husband, Eugene Henderson of Rochester, NH; her children David Henderson and his wife Brenda of California; Tammy St. Pierre and her husband Marc of Farmington, NH; Stanley Henderson and his wife Pam of Florida; Elizabeth “Betty” Richardson and her husband Mark of Barrington, NH; Bonnie Lepine and her husband Rick of North Carolina; and Kenneth Henderson and his wife Kristen of Farmington, NH. Hazel was a proud grandmother to twenty grandchildren and a cherished great-grandmother to twenty-two great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her sisters, Beverly Whitten of Rochester, NH, and Alice Hilton of Maine, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Hazel was predeceased by her daughter Susan Mayo and son-in-law Michael Mayo; her son Mark Henderson; her brothers Harry, Ernest, and Larry Smith; and her sister Anita Gourgue.

Hazel’s love, kindness, and devotion to her family will be remembered always and carried on through the many lives she touched.

Services will be at a later date. Family to announce once determined.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made to Cornerstone VNA or Barrington Food Pantry, in Hazel’s name for their compassionate care.

Cornerstone VNA, 178 Farmington Road, Rochester NH 03867

Barrington Food Pantry,105 Ramsdell Lane, Barrington, NH 03825