Lois Elizabeth Smarr Hanes was born to the late Robert and Annie Mae Mauney Smarr on June 6, 1925.
Mama grew up in Winston-Salem, North Carolina and graduated from Atkins High School at 15 years of age. She then enrolled at Winston-Salem Teachers College (WSSU) where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education.
She met our daddy, Norris Henry Hanes, while he was serving in the United States Army. They fell in love, married and became the proud parents of three children: Norris, Jr., “Teddy,” Lois Anne and Thomas Albert, “Al.”
Mama was a lifelong member of Grace Presbyterian Church where she served in many ministries of the church. Her favorite was singing in the choir! When she became ill and was no longer able to drive, she attended First Baptist Church (Highland Avenue) with her daughter.
Grandma began her professional career teaching in the public schools of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County. And she eventually went to work for and retired from Fairchild-Burns Company. Mama was active in the community and played a vital part in the founding of The Best Choice Center and East Winston Restoration Association. Her social activities included membership in the Pollyanna Club.
Mama was a generous and caring person. She loved her family and made sure that each of them knew how important they were to her. She loved and respected all who knew her. We will miss Mama!!
“Great” peacefully transitioned from this life on Wednesday, December 2, 2015. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert, Jr. “Bubba,” and Forest.
Along with her devoted and loving children, many memories of Mama will be cherished and shared by her children-in-law, L. Faye Price Hanes, John Young, Jr., and Judie Carpenter Hanes; her grandchildren; Norris III, Adrian, Shonta Young Sellers, Okeyma Young Wright, Thomas Jr., Devin and Delana; 12 great grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Great,’ and her dog, Willie, who she called her “little boy.” She is also survived by her only uncle, Lander Mauney; her cousin, Earline Penn; many great cousins who loved her dearly and longtime friends who became extended family members.
A Memorial Service for Mrs. Lois S. Hanes will be held at First Baptist Church (Highland Avenue) on Saturday, December 12, 2015 at 11:00 am with Reverend Dr. Darryl Aaron officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice and Palliative Care of Winston-Salem are requested.

For a copy of the funeral program, click here