MANCHESTER, Tenn. – Hazel Garrett Finley of Manchester, Tenn. passed away Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at Manchester United Methodist Hospital. Born October 25, 1931 to the late Roy and Mary Ethel Garrett in Ennis. She became a Christian at a young age and was a member of Trinity Baptist Church in Manchester.
In 1955, she graduated from Baptist School of Nursing in Louisville, and would go to serve as a beloved healthcare provider for almost 40 years. Her career included time as a charge nurse and eventually director of nursing, followed by 10 years with home health before retiring from the profession.
She was a gifted seamstress who created beautiful pieces for family and friends. Nature was Hazel’s happy place especially during hummingbird season in Middle Tennessee. She also loved traveling with her beloved husband, Rufus of 54 years on his Indian Golden Wing Honda Motorcycle, BMW Motorcycle, and their Coachmen RV. The lovebirds would make the trek yearly to the Everglades National Park along with many other beautiful locations across the United States.
Hazel is preceded in death by husband, Rufus Finley; daughter, Melinda Borders; brothers John Garrett and Bert Garrett; sister, Merle O’Hara; and nephew, Bruce Garrett.
Survivors include her grandchildren, Ashley Borders and Brandon Borders of Madison, Tenn.; son-in-law, Garry Borders of Madison, Tenn.; and a loved close family friend, David Taylor of Manchester, Tenn.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, May 20 at 2:00 p.m. at Gary’s Funeral Home in Greenville, KY. Burial will be at Carter Creek Cemetery, Greenville. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 20 beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Contributions may be made to Trinity Baptist Church of Manchester, TN, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the American Diabetes Association.
