Hazel Jean Bayers, 96, passed away peacefully at her home in Billings, Montana, on July 11, 2026.

Hazel was first married to Kent Neil Rowton until his tragic death in an accident in February 1955. Left widowed at a young age, she courageously raised four children—George, Sheila, Punky, and Dennis, who was born after Kent’s passing. On July 1, 1961, she married John (Jack) Arnold Bayers, and together they welcomed two more children, John and Jacque.

Born into a ranching family, Hazel was the youngest of six children, arriving just minutes after her twin sister, Helen. She spent her childhood on the family homestead before moving to Winnett, Montana, to attend high school, where she met Kent. Hazel married at just 15 years old and became a mother at 16.

After Kent’s death, Hazel and her children moved in with Helen and her family. While Hazel and Helen’s husband, Scotty, helped to support the household, Helen and Hazel lovingly cared for all eight children. The identical twin sisters were so alike that the children often mistook one for the other, only realizing their mistake when they were sent to find their “real” mother.

Hazel was an active member of the Billings Drill Team and an avid bowler, competing in the National Bowling Tournament several times. After marrying Jack and raising their family, she devoted herself to being a full-time homemaker before later working at Billings Dry Cleaning following Jack’s retirement.

To her family, Hazel was the heart of the home. She was an exceptional cook, talented seamstress, and devoted grandmother. Her cinnamon rolls, cookies, pies, pumpkin bars, macaroni, and goulash became cherished family traditions. She also had a gift for crafting, creating countless wreaths, Christmas decorations, and handmade treasures that continue to brighten the homes of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Hazel was preceded in death by her husbands, Kent and Jack; her sons, George and Dennis; her grandson, Dane; her great-granddaughter, Mara; and all her siblings and parents.

She is survived by her children Sheila Thornton (Keith) of Lacey, Washington; Leitha Jean “Punky” Dennis (Paul) of Lacey, Washington; Jacque Hansen of Billings; and John Bayers (Robyn) of Billings. She also leaves behind grandchildren Alex, Leah, Kara, Andrea, Tami, Troy, Gunnar, and Devon; eight great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; her beloved nieces Dale, Rae, and Tracy; as well as many other nieces and nephews, extended family members, dear friends; and her faithful cat, Tater.

Hazel will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved her. She lived a long, joyful life, and her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace and free from pain. Her love, kindness, and legacy will continue to live on through the family she cherished and the traditions she created.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate caregivers at Riverstone Hospice and the dedicated aides who cared for Hazel around the clock during her final days. Their kindness and devotion will never be forgotten.

Family and friends are warmly invited to join in celebrating Hazel's life at a funeral service to be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 20, 2026, at Michelotti-Sawyers Funeral Home & Crematory. A cookie and coffee reception as well as a graveside service will follow, and all who knew and loved Hazel are welcome to attend as we gather to honor her life and cherish her memory. Guests who wish to honor Hazel by wearing purple are warmly invited to do so.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Freckles and Tomcat Rescue, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping dogs and cats in need. Donations may be made by visiting https://frecklesandtomcatrescuemt.org.