Maxine Harrison

Maxine R. Harrison passed away in her sleep on March 13, 2022.

Maxine was born in Reamer/Clendenin WV on August 3, 1928. Maxine grew up in rural WV next door to the Remer General Store and Post office. Maxine was the daughter of Dewey Rollins and Flossie Hackney Rollins. Her Dad was a carpenter and Baptist Minister for the little church across the street. Her brothers Orville, James and Ron all served in WWII. Orville became a Chemistry professor at the naval Academy and Ron taught Irish literature at Ohio Wesleyan University and James returned to Remer in the grocery business and was President of the WV trappers Association. Maxine was a very caring person and graduated as a Registered Nurse from Alderson-Broaddus College. She met her forever love, Frederick L. Harrison at class registration in the gym at Alderson-Broaddus College in Philippi, WV.

Maxine and Freddie taught high school in Craig County VA for several years in the early 50’s and were both named Teacher of the Year several times. Maxine started her nursing career at Catawba Sanatorium in Red Sulfur Springs on Catawba Mountain. Maxine then joined the VA Hospital in Salem, VA in 1956 where she was a Head Nurse for over 20 years. Maxine kept in close contact with her brothers and organized reunions at WV parks nearly every year until the brothers were in their 70’s and couldn’t travel anymore. Maxine would prepare all the meals ahead of time. Maxine was the “healthcare resource” for the whole family and tried to make sure the whole family stayed healthy. She frequently sent “care packages” to her brothers when ill.

Maxine loved to shop. She loved shopping garage sales and kept her granddaughter Courtney in clothes until she started middle school.

Maxine attended the First Baptist Church in Salem, VA.

Maxine is survived by her son Joseph and his wife Carla, grandkids Courtney H. and grandson- in- law Blake Mann; Justin Harrison and granddaughter-in-law Lauren; Great grandkids Zachary, Makayla and Braxton Mann; and Bryce Harrison. Maxine suffered from severe Dementia and lived in a Memory care center the last years of her life but always enjoyed the family visits especially time with the great grand kids and daily visits from her love Freddie.

Those wishing to honor Maxine R. Harrison can contribute to the Alzheimer's Association.