Maxine Anderson

Life’s Legacy A Life Filled with Love, Laughter, and Music Maxine Deloris Anderson, known affectionately as “Sister Mac” to many and “Sweetie” to her husband, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2024. She was born on February 2, 1933, in Richmond, Virginia, to Hobert and Pearly Mae Cheatham. She is preceded in death by both parents as well as her husband, Harold J. Anderson, Sr. and daughter Monique Anderson, who died three days after her birth. Maxine was the eldest of three siblings. As the eldest sibling, Maxine exhibited a caring and devoted nature, taking on the role of caretaker for her younger sisters, Shirley and Bettie. As a child, she nurtured her love of music by taking her younger siblings to musicals such as Carmen Jones, Stormy Weather, Cabin in the Sky, and Porgy and Bess. Afterward, she would purchase and teach the musical score to her siblings. Doing this, cultivated her gift of playing the piano and teaching others to sing and harmonize. This skill later matured as she became the piano player and lead singer for The Universal Harmonizers. In this group, she met Harold J. Anderson, Sr.; whom she married on July 8, 1962. Maxine’s love for music would become a lifelong thread woven into her faith and her family. Maxine graduated from Maggie L. Walker High School. Maxine was once employed as an Elevator Operator and was dedicated to her work at the Defense General Supply Cooperation (DGSC). Throughout her career at DGSC, Maxine exhibited motivation, and patience as she overcame discrimination with grace and resilience. She believed in the power of commitment, hard work, and faith. Inspiring others with her favorite scripture, James 1:4 “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing”. Maxine accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior, right before her marriage to the love of her life, Harold J. Anderson, Sr. She was a member of the Church of God in True Holiness, which elevated to what we are today, Abundant Life Church of Christ. Their enduring love story spanned 58 years, blessed with the birth of their children, Harolynn Nicole Thomas and Harold J. Anderson, Jr. Maxine’s legacy extends to her cherished grandchildren, Kennedi, and Kingston. Maxine was a pillar of her church, Abundant Life Church of Christ, where she played the piano and organ, sang in the senior choir, and participated in the senior ministry, women’s auxiliary, dietary department, drama ministry, and even performed a comedy routine. Her vibrant personality, delightful blend of humor, generosity, and unwavering love, touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Maxine was a giver, known for putting the needs of others before her own. She is cherished by her family, her church community, and her many friends. Maxine’s life overflowed with diverse hobbies and passions. A skilled seamstress: she created clothing for loved ones, even crafting those unforgettable velvet MC Hammer balloon pants for her son. She loved shopping and finding treasures at thrift stores and online. But most of all, Maxine cherished spending time with family and church family, taking memorable trips, and creating lasting bonds. One fond memory of hers was the drive from Richmond, Virginia to Los Angeles, California for a music conference. She wanted to see the world in all its splendor. Maxine’s adventurous spirit led her to her favorite travel destination, Africa, where she experienced a life-changing journey and displayed her generous nature by giving away her belongings to those in need. Maxine was a woman of many talents – a black belt in karate, her motto was, “Never start a fight but always finish one”, a writer with beautiful penmanship, and she taught herself sign language. She had the unique ability to communicate through sign language during worship because she wanted to ensure everyone could participate in worship. Loyal, strong-willed, and a champion for those in need, Maxine left an indelible mark on the world. Maxine’s wish is to be remembered for her actions, a life that embodied love and service. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, kindness, laughter, music, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire generations to come. She leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved daughter, Harolynn Thomas; cherished son, Harold (Katrina) Anderson; grandchildren, Kennedi Jael and Kingston Merrell Anderson; sisters, Shirley Simmons and Bettie Prince; sisters-in-law, Olivia A. Foreman (Steve) and Fern Anderson; devoted nieces, Kiana (Samaral) Jackson and Avis (Kenny) Prince; a host of nieces and nephews along with many dedicated friends and church family.

Tributes

Maxine Anderson

February 2, 1933 - May 12, 2024