Maxine McCurry

Maxine McCurry, age 84, of Burnsville, passed away on Sunday, July 20th, 2025, after a fierce and courageous battle with cancer. A native of Yancey County, she was a daughter of the late Dot and Lela Robinson Austin. She was preceded in death by a niece, Paula Wright; a sister, Doris Wright; and two brothers-in-law: Albert Wright and Bob Webb.
Maxine was the kind of woman who left an impression wherever she went. Tough as nails, yet tender when it mattered most, she was a dedicated mother who raised her children with strength, compassion, and a no-nonsense kind of love that built character. She was outgoing, full of life, and never met a stranger – if you had the pleasure of knowing her, you knew you had a friend for life. Her hands were rarely still. She found joy working outside in her flowers and took pride in every bit of landscaping she touched. Her yard was a reflection of her spirit – bold, beautiful, and full of life. When the music started, Maxine came alive on the dance floor, whether boot-scooting or line dancing, reminding everyone to live a little. She loved going on her family beach trips where she could relax and find herself at peace. She laid down her spiritual roots growing up in the church on Indian Creek where her faith became her foundation. She was a woman who never backed down, never gave up, and never stopped loving with her whole heart.
Left to cherish her memory are her three children: Pam Bainbridge of Charlotte, Kimberly Young (Sam) of Burnsville, and Steve McCurry (Holly) of Asheville; five grandchildren: Joshua Young (Julia Edson), Nicole Bainbridge, Matthew Bainbridge, Kyndall Smith (Zach) and Jackson McCurry; two great-grandchildren: George and Colton; sisters: Mary Ruth Webb, Rachel Buckner (Donald), Susie Fox (Tommy), and Karen Robinson (Jim); her little canine companion, Frisky; as well as many extended family members.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 26th, in the chapel of Yancey Funeral Service. Rev. Shane Cassida will officiate. Burial will follow in the Austin Cemetery on Indian Creek Road. The family will receive friends from 2 until 3 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Maxine leaves behind a legacy of strength (and the fight in her was nothing short of heroic), happiness, and faith. She will be dearly missed, forever cherished, but never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Compassionate Care WNC at 856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville, NC 28714.