Mae Evelyn Hood

On July 1st, 1935, Frank McWhorter and Evelena Sullivan McWhorter joyfully welcomed a baby girl into the world. They named her Mae Evelyn McWhorter, though over the years, she would lovingly be known by many names: Mary Evelyn, Mae Evelyn, Barbara Jean, Bobbie Jean, Barbara, and Bobbie.

She was raised in Houston’s historic Studewood neighborhood—the city’s first Black community—located at North Main and East 37th Street. Her family legacy ran deep: her great-grandfather served as town sheriff and was a founding member of Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church.

Affectionately called “Bobble Jean” by family and friends, she excelled academically and socially at Miss Burrus Elementary School, where her classmates honored her as the very first “Ms. Burrus.” That title stayed with her and was fondly remembered even 50 years later by former classmates.

As “Bobbie Jean” blossomed into a graceful, God-fearing young woman, her many talents emerged. She was a gifted singer, passionate cook, generous volunteer, and a skilled floral designer. She sang in school choirs, church services, and community events. She went on to attend the original Booker T. Washington High School in Houston’s 4th Ward/Heights area and proudly became a Golden Eagle.

In 1954, she married Wilbert Evans, and together they had three beautiful daughters: Belinda, Renita, and Dottie. In 1965, she later married Emiel Hood, Jr. Returning to her alma mater, she became a dedicated President of the Booker T. Washington “Baby Ocean of Soul” Marching Band Booster Club, where she successfully led fundraising efforts to secure new band uniforms—mission accomplished! A lifelong and devoted member of Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, she was honored as a Lifetime Member for her unwavering faith, commitment, and leadership. She faithfully chaired and coordinated the church’s 75th, 90th, and 100th Anniversary celebrations. Her fundraising efforts helped purchase a multi-functional Organ and a stunning crystal chandelier that still shines in the sanctuary today.

Her ministries included: Wedding Coordinator, President Mass Choir, Sunshine Band, Beautification Committee, Cookbook and Souvenir Book Committees. Following her love for flowers and her faith in God, Bobbie Jean became the first Black florist to open a flower shop in Studewood: “Tuck-n-Ruffle Floral Shop.” She was affectionately known by many as “The Flower Lady.” God blessed her with a powerful soprano voice that could fill any room. Her gift led her to sing before a U.S. President, a Head of State, influential community leaders, and even at the wedding of an NFL coach. Her life was not without challenges. She battled and beat cancer twice—praise God—and faced the heartache of widowhood. Yet through it all, she remained strong, kind, independent, and deeply rooted in her faith.

On Thursday, June 5, 2025, Mae Evelyn “Bobbie Jean” Hood peacefully entered eternal rest. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in her children: Belinda Block Feaster (TC) of Tomball, TX, Renita F. Cunningham of Houston, TX and Dottie D. Evans of Houston, TX. Her cherished grandchildren: Damian Cunningham, Dana Cunningham Carr (Kelsie), Jason Cunningham and Justin D. Block, all of Houston, TX. Great-grandchildren: Kaylan, Kirstyn, Jessiy, Jeramiya Carr and , Janzi Cunningham Great-great-grandchildren: Constance, and Meilani, all of Houston, Texas She also leaves behind a host of extended family members and treasured friends.

A visitation for Mae will be held Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 9 AM to 11AM at Greater New Hope Baptist Church, located at 7818 N. Main St. Houston Texas 77022. The funeral will immediately follow from

11 AM to 12:30 PM. The committal will be held Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Paradise Funeral Home & Cemetery North, 10401 W Montgomery Rd, Houston, TX 77088.