Maurice Wayne Hooks ’52

Maurice Wayne Hooks ’52, of Matthews, N.C., died Dec. 6 at Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte, N.C. A Charlotte native, he was born June 15, 1927, son of the late Charlie and Lola Griffin Hooks. Hooks immediately entered the Navy upon graduation from high school. Upon his return from the service, he entered Charlotte College (now UNCC) and became a member of their first graduating class. He then attended Davidson, from which he graduated in 1952. In 1958, Hooks founded Chair & Equipment Rentals. That company grew into the region’s largest special events rental company, known today as Party Reflections Inc., which continues to be operated by the Hooks family. Hooks was an active member of First Baptist Church and the Fidelis Sunday School class. He was 32nd degree Mason, a member of the Excelsior Lodge #261, Scottish Rites Bodies, and the Oasis Temple of the Shrine. He was a past captain of the Oasis Road Runners, past captain of the Oasis Club Car Unit, and a member of the Royal Order of the Jesters. Hooks was a gracious man, who will be remembered fondly by all that knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, with whom he recently celebrated their 51st anniversary, Sue Thomas Hooks, 733 Plantation Estates Dr., Apt. 3, Matthews, NC 28105; son, Daniel Wayne Hooks (Margaret); daughter, Maurisa Hooks Beaver; six grandchildren, Dallas Wayne Hooks, Brandon Hooks, and Rebekah, Rachel, James, and Jonathan Beaver; and a brother, Theavon Hooks. In addition to his parents, Hooks was preceded in death by a sister, Evelyn Hooks Hinson.