Myra Dawn Garrett

Myra Dawn (Hazel) Garrett, 90, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on March 30, 2026, in Richmond, Virginia. Born on March 10, 1936, in Marked Tree, Arkansas, she lived a long and meaningful life marked by love, dedication, and resilience.

Myra pursued her education at the University of Arkansas, where she laid the foundation for many of her accomplishments. She was a teacher for several years. She then returned to complete her AAS in Health Information Management and later retired from her role as Director of Medical Records at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. Her work reflected her commitment to the well-being of others as did her long-time membership in the American Association of University Women (AAUW) working to empower women and defend their rights in education and the workplace.

Myra met her husband Wayne at the University of Arkansas where she was named American Campus Queen in 1953, and he was a letterman halfback who played in the 1955 Cotton Bowl. They were married for 53 years, prior to his death. Myra was also a loving mother to her two children: Michael W. Garrett (wife Marcia) and Frances Garrett Nichols (husband John). She cherished her role as a grandmother to Patricia Garrett Fearing (husband Stephen) and Michael Baxter Garrett (wife Sarah), and as a great-grandmother to Hazel Grace Fearing and Windsor Garrett Fearing. Myra also shared a close bond with her sister Frances Clark. She was predeceased by her parents, Maude E. Hazel and Marion W. Hazel, as well as her brother Michael Hazel.

Faith and friendships played an important role in Myra’s life. As a member of Three Chopt Presbyterian Church (TCPC), she taught classes frequently and was involved for many years in the social life of the congregation. She maintained close ties with friends from the “Zell Lane Group”, TCPC and Saint Mary’s Hospital.

In addition to her personal accomplishments and family devotion, Myra had a passion for reading and creative writing. She took great joy in staying connected with the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—a testament to the deep love she held for her family.

After Wayne’s passing, Myra moved to Lakewood Senior Living Community in Richmond. There she embraced life fully by making new friends and actively participating in the vibrant community around her including participating in many resident committees, theatrical productions of the Lakewood Players and volunteering at the library.

Myra will be remembered for her intelligence, loving spirit, unwavering support for those she cared about, and the bravery with which she faced this life’s challenges.

Those who knew and loved Myra are invited to gather to be comforted and reflect on her legacy. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 7, 2026, at 02:00 PM at Lakewood Senior Living Community 1900 Lauderdale Drive. Services will be led in the chapel by the Rev. Dr. Stephen Fearing.