Maxine Pryor Keath, 92, passed away Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Gordon Hospice House in Statesville, N.C. Maxine was born on February 4, 1932, to the late William Clifford Pryor and Flossie Mae Gryder Pryor. After graduating high school, she married James Randolph Keath of Moberly, Mo., and made that her home until 1976. At that time, she moved back to Statesville, N.C.

Maxine worked in retail most of her life, beginning with Walmart, often holding two jobs at a time. Upon moving back to Statesville, she went to work for Woolworth in Signal Hill Mall. She enjoyed her job there, working at the service desk with her co-workers, many of whom became lifelong friends, more like family members. Sometime later, she went to work at Intercraft Industries and retired there after 15 years. Eventually, she ended up back at Walmart, in Statesville this time. She retired at the age of 84 after many years of service there. She was also a member of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church.

Maxine was an avid reader, and after retirement, she would often read all day long. She had a Kindle that was kept charged at all times because after finishing a book, she would start a new one. Another one of her hobbies was playing the board game Scrabble. Even at 92, she was a formidable opponent and an amazing speller. She often came out the winner. Her love and joy for life were evident to anyone who knew her, and she was respected, loved, and cherished, especially by her family.

Maxine was affectionately known as “Max” by most everyone who knew her, including her family. It was a term of endearment which to her children meant she was not only their mother but a best friend.

We know that Maxine knows no pain or suffering now and that she is with our Lord in Heaven. Until we see her again, we take comfort in the knowledge that God is holding her in his loving arms.

Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.