Maxine Shelton Willis Griffith

Maxine Shelton (Willis) Griffith, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, was born on July 8, 1950, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to the late McArthur Shelton Willis, Sr. and Vannie Mae Higgs Willis. On Friday, December 12, 2025, she peacefully departed this earthly life at her home, with her devoted husband, William Edward “Med” Griffith, by her side.

Maxine attended Western Elementary School and graduated from Owensboro Senior High School. She later spent a brief time in Kansas City, Missouri, before returning to Owensboro to remain close to her family. At an early age, she professed her faith in Christ as her Savior while attending Mount Calvary Baptist Church, where she worshipped faithfully and participated in many church activities.

She worked for many years with the former Bell System and retired from BellSouth. Maxine also spent several years employed at MPD Manufacturing in Owensboro. Beyond her professional life, she found joy in crossword puzzles and especially in cross-stitching, generously gifting her creations to others. She loved cooking and baking—her pound cakes and pies were legendary, and she even mastered the art of yeast rolls.

Affectionately known as “Aunt Max” or “Maxi,” she was cherished by family and friends alike. Her home was always open, her laughter contagious, and her smile radiant—one that lit up her whole face and brought joy to those around her. Maxine delighted in socializing, dancing, listening to “old school” music, and sharing moments of humor that often left her in tears of laughter.

Maxine leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by her children, Ricky (Diana) and Joyce “Baby Sister”; grandchildren Darrell, DeMarko, Dehavin (Mackenzie), Donnisha, and Desmond; siblings McArthur (Sherry) Shelton Willis, Jr., Wanda R. Willis, Vanyel L. Willis-Parker, and LaVonne Renaye Willis; nieces ShaRetha V. Chilton, KimBra D. (Gabriel) Chilton Wade, LaTasia (Jay) Evans, and Venus (Warren) Arnold; nephews Mickey (Irene) Shelton Willis III, Mickey Willis IV, Shelton Anton Willis, Terran Willis, Justin Willis, and Timothy Willis; favorite cousin Lewis Willis; ten grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; several great-nieces and nephews, including Matthew (deceased); and a host of beloved friends and acquaintances.

A celebration of Maxine’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Fourth Street Baptist Church, 821 W 4th St, Owensboro, KY 42301, with Pastor Clarence Tapp of House of Jesus Christ Fellowship serving as eulogist and Dr. Jeramiah L. Parks, Pastor of Mount Calvary Baptist Church, officiating. Visitation will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 19, 2025, at McFarland Funeral Home, 1001 W 5th St, Owensboro, KY 42301.

Live streaming of the service will be available at www.mcfarlandfh.com. Please share memories and condolences with the family at www.mcfarlandfh.com.

Care entrusted to McFarland Funeral Home of Owensboro, KY.