Maxine was born on January 27, 1931, to Ode Charles and Ethel Marie (Hall) Meech in Fort Scott, Kansas. She grew up in Fort Scott, KS, helping on the farm and learning the value of hard work. Maxine raised her children, James Charles and Linda, and then married Dickie "Dick" Gene Downey on April 10, 1962, who brought a little daughter, Lisa, to create a blended family. She worked as a soldering technician with Western Electric until she had her daughter, Lana. She loved hosting family reunions and even though she did not love cooking; she was a great cook. She loved traveling with Dick in their motor home, especially to Texas. Playing cards was a favorite pastime, especially Pitch or Hand and Foot, with anyone. She had a close relationship with her sister, Virginia, and loved spending time with her.
Maxine is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; an infant brother; daughter, Lana Marie Downey; and sister, Virginia Rash. She is survived by her son, James 'Charles' Hunsicker; daughters: Linda (George Grzanowicz) Orth and Lisa (Dale) Miller; 6 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.