Hazel Lou Stone

Hazel Lou (Adams) Stone, 89, of Odessa, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026.

She was born on September 27, 1936, in Eastland, Texas, to Rayford Howard Adams and Hazel Lounette Howell. In early childhood, her family was later joined by her stepfather, Marlin Leonard Spindle, who helped raise her.

Hazel began her teaching career in McCamey, Texas, before she moved to Odessa where she went on to dedicate many years to education, primarily teaching sixth grade. She had a deep love for her students and took great pride in helping them reach their potential. Over the years, many former students stayed in touch, often sharing how her classroom was one of their favorite and most meaningful experiences growing up. Her commitment to education earned her recognition in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers for multiple years.

On July 10, 1965, she married Frank Alvin Stone, with whom she shared many years and raised her family.

In 1987, Hazel achieved a personal milestone by earning her Master’s degree in Psychology with a 4.0 GPA—an accomplishment she and her family held with great pride.

She was previously active in women’s ministries at First Church of God in Odessa, where she formed lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.

She was known for her dedication to her students, her strong sense of independence, and the care she extended to those around her.

Hazel was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Frank Alvin Stone; and her brother, Pat Ira Adams.

She is survived by her son, Jeff Stone; her daughter, Amy Ching (Jason); her brother, David Spindle (Susan); her grandsons, Hunter Stone, Steven Ching (Eva), and David Ching; and her two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and their families, as well as her dear friend Cynthia Schultz, who was like a sister to her.

Visitation will be held on April 20, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on April 21, 2026, at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Odessa, Texas, with Rev. Dr. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Arrangements are by Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home of Odessa.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the ASPCA, which was dear to her heart, or to a hospice organization of your choice.

Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and the students she inspired throughout her years of teaching.