of Harrison, AR
March 21, 1926 - July 29, 2024
Maxine Greenhaw Purdom Christian, age 98, of Harrison, played Wheel Of Fortune for the last time on Monday, July 29. The category for the bonus/heaven round is Phrase and the game makers give R, S,T, N and E. ?NE ?? ? ??ND. Maxine probably had the puzzle solved from the start, but, she called F, M, L, AND O --- we all call out: ONE OF A KIND because she was.
She was born March 21, 1926, to Beecher Kingston and Arlie (Henson) Greenhaw in Cave Creek. It was a hard-luck life with real poverty. Maxine colored with creek rocks, chewed gum made from sweet gum and stretch berries, and brushed her teeth with a chewed twig and salt.
Sharing in the hard-luck life were a total of 9 siblings. She survived all but two, brother, Morris Greenhaw of Farmington and sister, Hazel Lively of Jasper.
Maxine worked from could to couldn't picking cotton, housekeeping, waitressing, and for an extended period she worked at the garment factory making Levis. At home, she sewed wedding and bridesmaids dresses, mini skirts, swimsuits, and prom dresses for her girls. She also crocheted Barbie Doll clothes, quilted, canned, and cooked. She didn't know how to cook when she married young GI Lee Purdom, but she learned quickly and well. Her dishes were always the first to disappear at potlucks and dinners on the ground, Alas!
Maxine was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lee Purdom and 2nd husband, Willard Christian; brothers, Norman, Beecher, Noah and James Greenhaw, Porter Jay, Custer Hensley and one sister. Emma Fay Keys.
She is survived by her daughters and families, Sharon (Bob) Carr, Springfield; grandchildren, Stephanie (Paul) Glossip, Ozark, Amy (Jason) Wolf, Rogers; daughter, Myrna (Mike) Galligan, Monarch; granddaughter, Abi Moser; grandson, Dave Moser, Fayetteville; daughter, Debbie (Chuck) Bright, Harrison; grandchildren, Chuck (Brigid) Bright, Harrison, Charla Bright, Harrison; 10 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
The visitation was Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Woodland Heights Baptist Church with the funeral service to following, with Bro. Heath Kirkpatrick officiating.
The interment was at Maplewood Cemetery.
Maxine was truly one of a kind, always ready to offer a laugh, a prayer, and a keen observation. She is dearly missed.
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8 Condolence(s)
Stacey McMullen
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Oh how I loved this special lady. Her sense of humor was fantastic and obviously passed down through all the offspring She always made me feel special when we went to church together and always called me by name. When I was putting the church directory together and I was clarifying how she wanted her name, she responded “Christian “. And then she said “I finally became a Christian!” And then Abi sent the photo of her laughing How fitting. I know she was cherished by each of you. Thank you for sharing her.
Jimmy Wade Keys
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Sharon, Myrna and Debbie and families, I know that your loss is so great with Aunt Maxine but heaven's gain is much greater. So thankful that she lived her life for all you kids and grand kids and more for the her Lord! She will be greatly missed but rest assured we can see her again! Mat the comfort of the Holy Spirit rest on you!
Bobby and Lea Ann Keeton
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
We are so sorry for your loss.
Kathy Stacey Curry
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
Sharon, Myrna and Debbie we are truly sadden to hear of the passing of Maxine. Mom, Mary Stacey, thought of Maxine often.
We wish you peace to heal your heart and bring you comfort.
The Vernon Stacey Family.
Roger & Kay Biggs
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
Myrna, we are so sorry for your loss. We enjoyed visiting with your Mother when we would see her. We know how special Momma's are. Prayers to you and the family.
Joyce L Turney
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
My thoughts and prayers to all you girls, Sharon - Myrna & Debbie - on the loss of your Mother.
Maxine was a nice lady.
Don and Cindy Aiken
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
Our deepest condolences to the family in the loss of a dear mother, grandmother and friend. Debbie, Sharon and Myrna who gave loving care to her over the months/years, our hearts especially go out to you. God bless you.
Linda Bruffett
Monday, July 29, 2024
I send my sincere condolences to the family.