Maxine Francis Stilabower

Maxine Francis Stilabower, age 86, of Lamar, passed Tuesday January 22, 2013 surround by her loved ones. Maxine was born July 12, 1926 at Golden City, MO to Harry Lee and Ina Allene (McCubbin) Francis. She graduated from Golden City High School in 1943.  Upon graduating high school Maxine moved with her family to California, where she worked at Douglas Aircraft manufacturing airplane parts for the war effort. Maxine returned to Missouri to marry Edwin Lee "Bud" Stilabower. They were united April 19, 1944.  Together they raised two sons and owned and operated Isenhower Lumber Company for several years, before passing the business to their son and his wife. Maxine was a member of Lamar United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Daughters of the American Revolution, Fiber Art Guild, and the United Methodist Church Choir.  Maxine had a lifelong love of rose gardening, spending time with her family and being a home maker. She enjoyed the challenge of learning new things and meeting friends, new and old through work, various clubs and church.  Maxine carried a joy of music and singing from her childhood to years of singing in the church choir. Survivors include her husband of 68 years, Bud;  son Lonnie & Barb Stilabower of Lamar, MO; three grandchildren, Angie & Steven Bailey, Heath & Ashley Stilabower, and Kim & Rile Friend, all of Lamar, MO; eight great-grandchildren, Peyton, Travis, Tristen, Natalia, Carson, Alyvia, Ryder, and Rex. Maxine was preceded by her parents; her brother, Rex Leo Francis; her sister Naomi Lee Dossett; and one son Edwin L. Stilabower Jr. on November 4, 1964 at the age of 17. Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Saturday, January 26, 2013 at Lamar United Methodist Church with Dr. Barry Winders officiating.  Burial will follow at Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be 6 to 7 pm Friday, January 25, 2012 at Daniel Funeral Home. Contributions are suggested to Lamar United Methodist Church or the Back Pack Program in care of Daniel Funeral Home.