We are here to celebrate the life of Hazel Irene McGinty, a beacon of loving-kindness and unwavering faith, who passed away peacefully on September 2, 2024, at the age of 89, in Bakersfield, California. Born on December 1, 1934, in Wasco, California, to Ralph and Mary Henkel, Hazel's life was a testament to the power of love and faith.

Hazel, a graduate of Wasco High School in 1953, went on to build a life marked by dedication and service. Her career journey led her to the Shafter Research Station before she found her calling in the banking world. Hazel's remarkable work ethic and warm demeanor made her a cherished associate at the Bank of America branches in Shafter and Pismo Beach, where she retired after years of devoted service.

Outside of her professional life, Hazel's interests were a reflection of her love of home and family. An avid reader, she found solace and strength in the Bible, which guided her through life's challenges and joys. Hazel found joy and satisfaction in working in her yard caring for her flowers and landscape. She loved her hummingbirds and cared meticulously for their feeders. She also enjoyed watching her Hallmark movies and sharing fun conversations about them with family.

Hazel's life was rich with the love of family, including her beloved husband of 47 years, Charles McGinty; her daughter, Sheryl Harris and husband Dannie of Bakersfield, California; and her son, Dale McGinty and wife Gail of West Lafayette, Indiana. She was a loving sister to Betty Paetz of Fresno, California and her brother, Richard Henkel of Bakersfield. Hazel's legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren, Danee' Parks and husband Brian of San Diego, California, Jenny Harris of Bakersfield, California, Kayle McGinty and wife Becky of Danville, Indiana, Jason Harris and wife Jennifer of Bakersfield, California, Michelle Franklin and husband Jeff of Verona, Wisconsin, and Noelle Aucoin and husband Joshua of Lafayette, Indiana. Her great-grandchildren, Tyler and Emily Parks, Hannah and Jack Harris, Lucas, Lilly, and Lincoln Via, Charity and Felicity Franklin, and Arielle Aucoin. They will forever cherish their precious memories.

In every aspect of her life, Hazel was guided by her faith, her love for her family, and her commitment to prayer. She prayed for each child, grandchild and great-grandchild, as well as countless nieces, nephews and loved ones daily as she walked through her house touching each one's photo. She will always be remembered for her faithfulness in prayer, her devotion to her family and her Lord.

Hazel often reminded all of us of her repeated quote that, "When you show love, love shows back" She also would follow that by saying, "I feel so blessed and loved all my life because of the family God has given me." Hazel's example is the legacy of gratitude she leaves with each one of us. As we say goodbye to Hazel Irene McGinty, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a journey completed with grace. Her memory will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her, and her influence will resonate for generations to come.