Maxine Bennett
Maxine Bennett, 77, died Jan. 8, 2003, at Newton Medical Center.
Born Aug. 29, 1925, at Aulne, she was the daughter of A.S. and Marie (Salome) Williams.
The family moved to a farm a couple miles west of Burns in 1929 and she attended country school for grades one through five. At that time they moved to Peabody where she attended school.
Following her schooling she moved to Wichita where she worked in a defense plant. Later she moved to Kansas City and worked for Bendix and became involved in the union.
She later moved to Marionville, Mo., and worked as a rural mail carrier for many years. Her dog, Penny, rode the route with her.
In 1988, she moved to Florence. She was a member of Florence Christian Church and was an active member of the community.
She enjoyed cooking and was known for meals she prepared for the chamber of commerce and the homemade rolls she made for the Harvey House.
She was a quilter and gardener who loved Hank Williams music and was an avid baseball fan.
She was known for the hand-painted eggs she made and gave to friends and family for gifts. She also was a regular participant in the daily discussions at the Chuckwagon Café.
Hearing and eyesight problems made life difficult for her the past four years but those who knew her will remember her stories and laughter.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth, and one grandchild.
She is survived by two brothers and two sisters, Rodney Williams of Florence, Darroll Williams of Valley Center, Phyllis Brosemer of Florence, and LaVon Coop of Newton; one grandchild; nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Saturday at Florence Christian Church with the Rev. Harold Brown and the Rev. Bill Dyar officiating.
Scott Zogelman sang "What A Friend We Have in Jesus," and "How Great Thou Art," accompanied by Dolly Soyez, organist.
Casket bearers were Stan Williams, Shawn Williams, Sheldon Williams, Kelly Williams, Steve Brosemer, and Alan Conwell.
Burial was at Claney Cemetery.
A memorial fund has been established with the Florence Ambulance Service.
