Hazel McClary

Johnnie Hazel Jack McClary, affectionately known as Hazel, was born August 14, 1932, in Dekalb, Mississippi to John Jack and Birdie Lee Stewart. One of four daughters, Hazel was blessed with a long and remarkable life. Hazel departed this life September 17, 2026, at the blessed age of 94.

As a young girl Hazel moved to Chiago, Illinois and eventually met the love of her life L.C. (Al) McClary. They married in 1951. Together they built a loving family and were blessed with three children, Philip, Sharon and Michael.

Hazel was a devoted wife and mother who dedicated herself to caring for family and managing the home. She worked various odd jobs over the years, but her greatest joy and responsibility was being there for her husband and children.

As her children grew into adulthood, Hazel became an active and beloved presence in her church and community. She volunteered her time and energy to countless activities through her church; St Ailbe Catholic Church. After the passing of her husband of 45 years in 1995, Hazel became even more deeply rooted in her faith and her church family.

Hazel’s family remained an important part of her life. In 2016 Hazel’s mother died at the blessed age of 104 years old. Hazel had shared responsibilities for her care. In 2017, Hazel moved to Goodyear, Arizona with her son Michael, while a new home was being built in Gilbert, Arizona to better accommodate her. Shortly after moving to Gilbert, Hazel became a member of St. Juan Diego Catholic Church where she continued to nurture her faith.

In 2023, Hazel began experiencing some challenges with her health. During that time, she reached out to one of the ministries at St. Juan Diego; Women in God’s Service (WINGS). They visited her at home initially once per week, eventually increasing to 3 visits a week. Hazel treasured the fellowship, friendship and love shared by the women of WINGS. She became especially close to several of them and their visits brought joy and companionship into her life.

Throughout her 94 years, Hazel remained a spunky, strong willed and spirited woman. While living in Chicago she was active in the neighborhood block club and took pride in her home and making sure her neighbors were caring for their homes and property. That same spirited personality stayed with her throughout her life. Even during her final days in the hospital. She could be heard barking orders to the hospital staff. A perfect reminder that she was still Hazel until the end.

Hazel was preceded in death by her beloved husband L.C. (Al), her oldest son, Philip, and her 3 sisters.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her daughter Sharon Walker, of Ann Arbor, Michigan and her son Michael McClary (James Rivera), of Gilbert, Arizona; two granddaughters, Angela McGee (Bill McGee) of Chicago Heights, Illinois, Essence Walker of Chandler, Arizona and one great grandson Aaron McGee of Chicago Heights, Illinois and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends.

Hazel’s life was filled with family, faith, friendship, service and spirit that could not be contained. She touched many lives through her love, determination, her humor and unmistakable personality.

Though she is no longer with us in body the love she gave and the memories she created will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Her Spirit Lives On!

A Viewing will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Whitney & Murphy Bueler Mortuary, 14 W. Hulet Drive, Chandler, AZ 85225. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 9:30 AM at St. Juan Diego Catholic Church, 3200 S. Cooper Road, Chandler, AZ 85286. Interment will be held at a later date at Lincoln Cemetery, 12001 S. Kedzie Avenue, Blue Island, IL 60406.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: 

St. Juan Diego Catholic Church (WINGS)

3200 S. Cooper Road, Chandler, AZ 85286.