Hazel Jean Underwood was born on January 16, 1937, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Daisy Stallworth and Nick Montgomery.

Hazel began her education at Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary School and later attended Hughes High School. After completing the 10th grade, she moved to Cleveland, Ohio, with momma Ora who helped raise her, where she continued her education at Glenville High School. She graduated from Glenville H.S. in 1955.

Following high school, Hazel went on to attend Kent State University, continuing her pursuit of education and personal growth.

Hazel met and married Robert Vernon Underwood. Their union was blessed with five children: Rosalyn, Andrea, Crystal, Leisha, and Frankie (deceased).

In search of a place of worship, she began attending Beulah Baptist Church. After that, she visited several churches before joining Cleveland Church of Christ. She later joined Antioch Baptist Church, where her daughter Andrea and grandson Isaiah are members. She then became a member of the Burroughs-Malekebu/Waite Circle.

Hazel began her career as a cashier at Pick-N-Pay supermarket, which later became Finast. She retired after 30 years of dedicated service.

After retirement, Hazel devoted herself to being a loving and dedicated grandmother to Julian, Isaiah, and Jordan.

Hazel was an excellent seamstress who taught her girls to sew, inspiring them to become fashionistas. She was also a wonderful cook and put all five of her children through college.

Hazel enjoyed traveling and has visited Los Angeles, Las Vegas, New York, Honolulu, Maui, Cancun, and Puerto Rico.

Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

The vessel that hosted her soul for 89 years is free to live on in the memories of all who loved and cared for her.

Hazel Jean Underwood left this world peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on September 14, 2026. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Vernon Underwood; her son, Frankie Underwood; and her brother, Larry Walker.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Rosalyn Underwood, Andrea Underwood, Crystal Underwood, and Leisha Walton; her grandsons, Julian Walton, Isaiah Underwood, and Jordan Walton; and a host of family and loved ones who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.