Lavene (Parker) Maxwell, 93, of Flat Rock, IL, passed away on December 9, 2023, in the comfort of her home. Vibrant and spirited until the end, Lavene's many years on this earth were a testament to her enduring love, generosity, and selfless dedication to her family and community.

Born on September 14, 1930, in Bond Township, rural Lawrence County, Lavene was the daughter of George & Bernice (Pinkstaff) Parker. As the girl who was expected to take on significant responsibilities, she developed a resilience and work ethic that became core aspects of her character. Her upbringing was unique, as she managed chores that taught her the values of dedication and excellence; whether plowing the garden or oiling rod-line posts, she undertook these tasks with resolve. Despite an unexpected family move before her senior year, Lavene graduated from Olney High School in 1950, demonstrating her adaptability and determination. Shortly thereafter, on October 21, 1950, Lavene married her high school sweetheart, Wilfred Maxwell, at the First Missionary Baptist Church in Flat Rock. This union began a lifetime of love and an unwavering partnership that lasted 73 years.

Lavene's life was a portrait of devotion, as she embraced her role as a homemaker with unparalleled passion. Lavene's heart and home were open to all - a testament to her inherently loving and kind nature. Her generosity knew no bounds; in addition to caring for her own family, she often babysat and fed children across town, creating a nurturing haven where the warmth of her kindness was felt by everyone. She channeled her love into culinary creations that will long be remembered - from her soups, beans, and cornbread to desserts like her sumptuous pineapple upside-down cake, cherry delight, and Texas sheet cake. Her cinnamon rolls, in particular, were in a league of their own. She was also a gifted seamstress and gardener, and though she performed these acts out of necessity, she was able to make time for a little fun as well. After all, she and Wilfred found joy and companionship through card games with a close-knit group of friends. Her fondness for Betty Boop was also a reflection of the spirit and charm she radiated day in and day out.

Motherhood extended naturally into her role as a grandma and great-grandma. She helped raise her first grandchild and welcomed her grandkids for extended stays without hesitation. Time and again, Lavene proved to be a pillar of strength for her family, tending to her parents and in-laws with tender care when frailty came upon them. Her home was the nucleus of family celebrations, hosting every major holiday and gathering with open arms. Lavene's impact resonated beyond her home, as the whole community of Flat Rock will fondly remember her spirited personality, which seemed to get spicier with age! She was a beacon of love and light, enriching the lives of all those fortunate enough to cross her path.

Lavene Maxwell lived for others, reflecting the best of what it means to be a matriarch, friend, and cornerstone of loving memories. As we bid her a fond farewell, let us honor her extraordinary legacy by embracing the virtues of kindness and generosity she embodied throughout her 93 wonderful years with us.

She is survived by her husband of over seven decades, Wilfred Maxwell. Her memory will also live on in her sons, Parker Maxwell, Ron & wife Brenda Maxwell, and Gary Maxwell; her son-in-law, Kevin Culp; her grandchildren, Chris & Joy Wesley, Benjamin & Stacy Maxwell, Sarah Maxwell & Chad Rice, Carson Maxwell, Ashley & David Milam, Veronica & Cody Murphy, Hillary Maxwell & Caitlyn Hodson, and Kaycee Culp; her great-grandchildren, Ashton, Austin, Aiden, Taryn, Cayson, Olivia, Kyndal, Tinley, Parker, Avery, Rylee, Ryan, Atticus, and Kinley; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George & Bernice (Pinkstaff) Parker; her daughter, Janet Maxwell-Culp; her daughter-in-law, Cathy Maxwell; and her sister, Lovone Kimmel.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 14th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Flat Rock. Funeral services will immediately follow and will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, with Pastor J.D. Branson officiating. Burial will be in the Seceder-Maxwell Cemetery.

Goodwine Funeral Home, Flat Rock, IL