Joan Belle Maxwell

May 9, 1937 – July 1, 2026

Joan Belle (Palmateer) Maxwell was the third of four children born to Joe and Leota (Burkett) Palmateer. She was born on May 9, 1937 in Midland, Michigan and passed away on July 1, 2026 in Little Rock, Arkansas at 89 years of age.

Joan’s family was the center of her world. She dedicated her life to caring for and supporting those she loved, and she loved unconditionally. The greatest joy and most important role of her life was as the loving mother of eight children, Grammy of eight grandchildren, and G.G. of six great-grandchildren. She always said that she had raised her kids, and we’d raise our own. She did not stand by that statement! When we had childcare issues, children constantly ill from day care, etc., she unhesitatingly stepped in and became their caregiver. She did this for grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved them so dearly, and the feeling was deeply reciprocated.

Joan was an avid reader. One of the many tragic outcomes of her dementia journey was the loss of her ability to read. We hope heaven has a huge library. That’s where you’ll find her! She loved to travel. She had the opportunity to visit Ireland, England, France, Italy, Hawaii, Mexico, and Canada in addition to many of the contiguous US states and amazing sites such as the Grand Canyon. She also used to crochet. She lost that ability due to arthritis several years ago, but we have the treasures she left us with beautifully crocheted blankets, doilies, and tablecloths. She had a song for every occasion. You never knew when any little phrase or utterance would trigger a bout of singing. This personality quirk has been passed on to subsequent generations. We embrace it! She had an impressive collection of teapots and salt and pepper shakers. She was very easy to buy gifts for. If all else failed, a teapot.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Delores LaVier. She is survived by her sister, Yvonne Dyer of Midland, MI and brother, Joe Palmateer II of Harrison, MI. She is also survived by her children, Tammora McClendon of North Little Rock, AR, Anita Maxwell of Alexander, AR, James (Kim) Maxwell of Cabot, AR, Coleen Habenicht of Little Rock, AR, Christina Hatfield of Little Rock, AR, Michael Maxwell of Little Rock, AR, Brian Maxwell (Haoyan Liu) of Springdale, AR, and Brendan (Erin) Maxwell of Pea Ridge, AR; grandchildren, Sandra McClendon (Matthew Ferricher), Sean McClendon, Rachael (Tony) Mayhew, Paul Hatfield, Richard (Emily) Maxwell, Conor Habenicht, Mary Maxwell (Rosario Dispensa), and Ashlynn Maxwell; great-grandchildren, Audrey, Rileigh, and Declan McClendon, Teigan Ferricher, and Ella and Ava Mayhew. Additionally, she is survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law, and lifelong friend, Ruby Gould. The family would like to thank all the staff of Presbyterian Village and most specifically her nurse, Jovan for their love and compassion throughout her last days with us here on earth.

Joan was a devout Catholic. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She found strength and comfort through her faith and lived with compassion, kindness, and grace. Her faith, love of family, and caring spirit touched us all. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of her family and friends.

Rosary will be Monday, July 6, 2026 at 5:30 at Griffin Leggett Healey and Roth, 5800 W 12th Street, Little Rock, AR, 72204. Vistitation will follow from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Funeral Service for Joan Belle Maxwell will be held Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 12:00 PM at the Cathedral of St. Andrew, 617 Louisiana Street, Little Rock, AR, 72201 with Father Joseph L. de Orbegoza officiating.