Mary Maxine Reece, age 93, passed away peacefully at her home in Yale, OK on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

Maxine was born on March 4, 1933, in Hallet, OK to Virgil and Edith McMillian. Maxine was very close to and enjoyed spending time with her beloved grandparents, Olive Pearl and Pearl Isaac Grantham.

Maxine attended school in Yale for grades K-12th, graduating in 1951 from Yale High School.

Maxine married Leroy Reece in 1952. They settled in Yale to make their home and to raise their children, Bill, David, Steve, Jerry, Diana, Tom, and Piper.

Maxine worked at OSU for many years in various roles. During the last several years of her employment she managed the "Little Bakery" on campus, where she made the BEST cinnamon rolls.

Maxine was a proud lifelong member of the Yale First United Methodist Church. She began attending the church with her grandmother and carried on the tradition of taking her own children and grandchildren to church. She became a member of the church on March 28, 1948, by confession of faith, and remained an active member in the church from that point on. She was often in the choir, leading a Sunday school class, attending Bible study, and being a fervent prayer warrior.

Maxine had many hobbies including baking and decorating cakes, baking, crocheting, and sewing. Often entering her crafts in the Payne County Fair.

Maxine most enjoyed spending time with her family.

Maxine is preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, son Tom, daughter in law Debi K. Reece (Bill), daughter in law Debi A. Reece (David), and son in law David Ramage (Diana).

Maxine is survived by her children Bill, David, Jerry and Donna, Diana, Piper, and Tracy (Tom) of Yale, and Steve and Charissa of Verdigris. Plus, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

The family will be holding a memorial service on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Yale First United Methodist Church.