Hazel was born on the Diamond Farm, near Fintona and grew up at Lisahoppin House, Omagh. She was educated at Cranny Public Elementary School , Dervenye PES and Omagh Academy . Her first job was as secretary at Manor House School, Armagh from 1956 until 1962.

Hazel married Ross Henderson of Newtownstewart who was head of the history department at Omagh Academy . Hazel and Ross were members of the Local History Group which was run by staff of Northern Ireland Public Record Office and met weekly in the Model School , Newtownstewart  during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Her interest in local history was further developed at this time owing to her contacts with  PRONI staff members Dr Brian Traynor, Dr Bill Crawford and Mr Sean McMenamin.

Hazel was a founder member of the West Tyrone Historical Society in 1980. She has served on the Committee for many years ; since 1990 she has been Honorary Treasurer.