Hazel Gaither Johnson Arnold Babson, 91, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, unwavering faith, and a legacy of love that will continue for generations.
Born on May 21, 1935, Hazel was the daughter of the late Vera Arizona Gaither and William Eursie Gaither. She was raised in South Georgia alongside her seven siblings, where she developed the strong work ethic, resilient spirit, and joyful personality that would define her throughout her life.
Hazel first married Marvin Johnson, and together they welcomed three children: Terri Mercer, Cheryl Herring, and Van Johnson. Following Marvin’s passing, she married Curman Arnold, with whom she shared many happy years until his death. Later in life, Hazel was blessed to find the love of her life and soulmate, Jervie Babson. Together they embraced life’s greatest joys—traveling, making memories, and spoiling their beloved dog, Mandy. Their years together were filled with laughter, companionship, and unconditional love.
A gifted beautician, Hazel dedicated her life to serving others through her profession. She proudly worked behind the chair until the remarkable age of 80, building lifelong friendships with clients who became like family. Her passion for making others feel beautiful was matched only by the kindness and warmth she shared with everyone she met.
Hazel was a God-fearing woman whose faith guided every aspect of her life. She was known for her contagious smile, quick wit, spunky personality, and her incredible ability to bring joy wherever she went. She never met a stranger, and her vibrant spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
She was preceded in death by her soulmate and husband, Jervie Babson; her husbands, Marvin Johnson and Curman Arnold; her beloved daughter, Cheryl Herring; her sisters, Mary-Lou Parsons, Wynell Hamm, and Patricia Garner; and her brothers, Clifton Gaither and Manuel Gaither.
Left to cherish her memory are her sister, Margaret Crews, brother, Charles Gaither, daughter, Terri Mercer; her son, Van Johnson and wife, Pam; her grandchildren, Christy Grice, Amy Chapman,
Travis Mercer, Carrie Hewett, Devan Britt, and Richard Herring; twelve great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives she touched.
Although our hearts are heavy with her passing, we find peace in knowing that Hazel’s faith has become sight. Her legacy is one of love, strength, perseverance, and unwavering devotion to God and family. We can only imagine the glorious homecoming she received as she walked through those pearly gates, reunited with those who had gone before her and hearing the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Hazel’s beautiful smile, infectious laughter, and boundless love will be deeply missed, but the memories she created and the example she set will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Arbor Landing as well as the Lower Cape Fear Hospice house for their impeccable care shown.
Funeral services will be held Saturday August 15, 2026 at three o’clock in the afternoon at White Funeral and Cremation Service Lou Ellen White Memorial Chapel with Reverend Anthony Clemmons officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Bolivia.
The family will receive friends Friday August 14, 2026 at the funeral home from 6-8 pm.
Pallbearers will be, Darren Grice, Garrett Grice, Tyler Grice, Colton Chapman, Dakota Hunt and Jeremy Tart. Honorary pallbearers will be Travis Mercer, Richard Herring, Fin Britt and Fisher Britt.
White Funeral and Cremation Service
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