With heavy hearts, we celebrate the life of Shirley Ray Hancock Maze. She passed from this world on February 28, 2025, at the age of 89, surrounded by her family and into the arms of her loving Jesus. She was born to Clara Pauline Ogle Hancock and William "Ray" Hancock on August 16, 1935, in Crosbyton, Texas. She married her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Euclid, on August 5, 1951, in Morton, Texas, at the ripe age of 15. They initially attempted to marry in Crosbyton, but authorities refused to sign for them. They went on to share 64 lovely years of marriage.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; her twin sister, Charlotte Ruth Hancock; her three brothers, Donald Wayne Hancock, Olen Keith Hancock I, and Gary Earl Hancock; her husband, Euclid Alton Maze; one son, Steven Brent Maze; one granddaughter, Monica Alexandra Maze; and one grandson, Jarrod Dirk Lehew. Shirley has always been described as the sweetest person ever known. She had a way of making everyone around her feel loved. She poured her heart into caring for her family, and nothing brought her more joy than gathering everyone around the table for a home-cooked meal. Her food was simply the best, made with love in every bite. She had a special talent for embroidery, which she used to create thoughtful pieces for her loved ones, and she found peace in caring for her garden.
She was also a devoted caregiver, especially to Blue, the beloved dog she inherited from her late husband. No matter what, she made sure everyone felt special. Her chocolate cakes were legendary, and every year when the whole family gathered, she baked a big red velvet birthday cake to celebrate everyone together with love. For many years, she worked tirelessly at a doctor's office by leading the administrative duties with dedication. Outside of work, she was a champion bowler, and always brought a competitive spirit and a lot of fun. Despite her small stature, she was strong, determined, and full of life. She adored her children, and their home became a gathering place for their friends, who were drawn to her warmth, and generosity.
She was small but mighty, a source of strength, love, and joy for everyone who knew her. Her presence was a gift, and she will always be adored by those who were lucky enough to have experienced her unconditional love.
She is survived by one brother, Terry Rolen Hancock. Her daughter, Paula Denese Maze Lehew; one son, Mark Alton Maze and his wife, Maria Dolly Maze. Her grandchildren: Jason Maze and wife Jann; Anthony Maze and wife, Lisa; Chrissy Lehew, Elizabeth Hileman and husband, Jeffrey; Eric Maze and girlfriend Grace Larvin, and Michelle Maze. Her great-grandchildren: Jara Lehew and fiance, Montana Bills; Jonathan Wheeler, Dawson Wheeler, Jace Lehew, River Lehew, Dylan Lehew, Samuel Hileman, Nathan Hileman, Jensen Phillips, Emilia Hileman, Dionna Parrish, Madison Maze, Alexis Maze, and Adelynne Maze. Her 8 great-great-grandchildren, Elizabeth, Maddux, Nelda, Renee, Able, Silis, Madilyn, and Oliver. And numerous loving cousins and friends.