Maxine, a very dear and special friend.

I will never forget the cold fear that crept over me when Maxine responded to my belated birthday message to say she was in hospital and when I then read her description of her condition.  She was, as usual for Maxine, very positive and expressed her utter confidence in the clinicians treating her.    In this too, she showed unfailing courage.

How do I capture in a few words the memories of a 35-year friendship while still struggling to accept that there will be no more?  I will miss so many things about Maxine. We shared many fun and happy times, most of them in the earlier years of our friendship until I let life get in the way.  But I cherish the memories of our last two meetings in West Norwood and Streatham.  We knew each other well enough that even if we hadn’t seen each other for a while, we just picked up from where we left off. Hugging, chatting and enjoying each other’s company. Right up to the end we were members of each other’s support networks.

Maxine, you were a shining example of how to maintain the balance between family, friends, work and community, a challenge we all face but which most of us fail at.

 I have so many memories that make me smile whenever I think of you.  

Your delicious cooking – not so long ago, I resolved to ask you to teach me how to cook!  You were in your element preparing a meal while engaging in conversation with your guests.  And then the result of your culinary efforts was always well worth the wait!

Your calm but vivacious personality. 

Your positivity, determination and warmth – a gentle smile never far from your lips.

Your love of bespoke tailored clothes made by other dear friends of yours.  Your eye for the aesthetically pleasing.

You were intelligent and highly articulate. Over the years I particularly enjoyed our discussions about current events.  You often had a perspective on issues which I hadn’t come across before, whether it was on South African politics or AIDS, you made me stop and think some more.  We celebrated the Obama election victories and more recently discussed the outcome of the 2020 US elections.

You grasped life and all its adventures and opportunities with both hands.

The pain of grief is sharp, but you left behind a wealth of memories to comfort all who love you.  I give thanks that I was a part of your life and for the riches you brought to it. 

My deepest and sincerest sympathies go out to Kabuki and William, and to all of Maxine’s nearest and dearest. Her passing was an unexpected blow.  May you find comfort and encouragement in the knowledge that she touched so many lives. 

May her soul rest in perfect peace.

 

Christiana