Leona Frances Maxwell

Leona Frances Maxwell, our precious mom and Grammy, gained her wings and went to her eternal home in Heaven November 20, 2020. Leona was born August 2, 1936 to parents Charles and Grace Burton.

Leona attended Lubbock High School and remained a Lubbockite until she moved to the Dallas area in 1994. While in Lubbock, Leona left her thumbprint on countless lives. She was a true pillar for Lubbock Power & Light and the City of Lubbock, where she had a 30+ year career. At Lubbock Power & Light, she became Assistant Director and later moved into the City Manager’s office as Head of Public Relations. During this time, she was also involved with the Emergency City Services. She was President of the American Business Women’s Association, where she inspired many fellow businesswomen. Leona was also Chairman of the United Way where she earned the Humanitarian award, Adopt a School Chairman, and LISD Foundation for Excellence.

In 1995 after making her move to the Dallas area, Leona retired from the City of Garland Public Relations, where she chaired the Spring Creek Festival. In Retirement, she poured herself into a new found love for painting ceramics, traveled as much as she could, and honored her Savior by singing in her church choir, and spending time with her family who adored her so much.

Leona loved to love on people. She embodied a kind of grace that is so rare in this world and she was truly a light in so many lives. Leona’s heart was of the most selfless and the legacy she leaves behind is one that will be treasured forever by all that love her. She faced many battles in her life, and she was an incredible example of poise and gentleness while showing some of the most impressive bravery and strength. No matter the circumstances, Leona always found the silver lining and her zest for life never faded. Leona made sure those around her always knew just how much she loved them and she never forgot the meaning of thankfulness. She was truly the perfect example of the Lord’s unconditional love; she loved those around her with a Christ-like tenderness that will never be forgotten.

Her life was a living example of Ephesians 4:32- “And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.”

Leona is preceded in death by her mother and father Charles and Grace Burton, her older brother Charles Burton, and her daughter-in-law Jill Maxwell. She is survived by her brother, Frank Burton; Her 3 Children, Cynthia Williams, Todd Maxwell, and Steven Maxwell (Debbie Maxwell); Grandchildren, Justin Williams, Mallory Maxwell, Shelby Maxwell, Avery Maxwell, Joshua Craft (Brittany), and Jacob Craft (Avry); and 7 great-grandchildren.  All of these she loved and touched deeply.

There will be a graveside service held Monday, November 30, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. at Pecan Grove Cemetery, 1701 S McDonald St, McKinney, Texas with Pastor Kent Barnard officiating.

If desired, memorials may be made to the American Stroke Association: https://www2.heart.org/site/SPageNavigator/donatenow_stroke.html