Mary H. Maxwell

Mary Helen Evans Maxwell was born on January 20, 1943 in Greenville, South Carolina to Mary Owings Evans and Marshall Evans. She spent her younger years surrounded by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. At 16, her parents moved the family to Riverside, Ca to be near other family members. She attended Ramona High School and graduated in 1961. In July, she married the boy next door, Robert Maxwell, from Lee, MA. She spent her early years of marriage as a busy homemaker and mother to Rhonza, Trina, and Robert; oftentimes teaching them how to do things even she did not know how to do. Living on Dundee Road allowed her to be a part of a neighborhood that felt like family. When her nieces needed a home, without hesitation, she took them in and loved them as her own. When her children attended her alma mater, she became involved in the booster club and became very active serving in her church, Home Gardens Assembly of God. She loved God and was called to serve. It was there that her heart became tender to the under represented and disenfranchised. She volunteered to teach a second grade Sunday School class, and assisted in children's church. In addition, she directed a weekly bus ministry that ran 7 busses and one van to pick up an average of 250 children and adults from some of the most needy areas of Corona, El Cerrito and Home Gardens. Her love for God's people was evident everywhere she went. She used both her talents and her heart in ministry. Many adopted her as their mother or grandmother. Many called her friend and sought her out for advice and encouragement. She served in various areas of ministry and most recently spent several years working with the children and Homeless ministry in Riverside. She sacrificially gave of her time, talent, and treasure.

As her family grew, she made time for each of them. "Busy Grandma" was very involved in the lives of her grandchildren as sitter, chef, Herculette but more importantly, she was their cheerleader. Even those who called her "Mares" felt her love and knew that she had their back.

Mary spent her life caring for others and making an impact on those around her. Mary loved God and serving him, cooking and family get togethers. Her life ended too soon.

Mary Maxwell received her heavenly reward on Saturday, January 28, 2017. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Bob, children, Rhonza Judd, Trina and Pat Orsbun, Robert and Sandra Maxwell, Brendal and David Thomas and Marsha and Sean Reed, 10 grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Friends may visit the Pierce Bros Crestlawn Mortuary at 11500 Arlington Ave, Riverside, Ca 92505 on Sunday, February 5th from 4-8 pm. The family will receive friends from 6 - 8 pm on Sunday at the mortuary. Her celebration of life service will be held on Monday, February 6th @ 10 am in the Crestlawn chapel. Mary loved get togethers so a potluck reception will follow at Bob and Mary's home. Directions will be available at that time.