Mirtie Louise Maxwell

Mirtie Louise Freeman Maxwell, age 78, died peacefully on February 15, 2023 while surrounded by the enduring love of her two daughters.

She was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on May 12, 1944 and resided in Tuscaloosa with her family.

Louise earned a degree in Education from Livingston University and, after graduation, married Frank Maxwell, Jr. on June 25th 1966.

Louise was a beloved member of her church family at First Freewill Baptist in Northport for the past thirty years where she planned, cooked, and served countless meals for Wednesday night fellowship. She was involved in children’s ministries where her unique ability to connect with young people endeared her to many children and their families for generations.

Louise believed that every person deserved to feel loved, heard, and appreciated. She radiated a welcoming spirit, and it drew many to her for support, love, and fellowship. People came to her for advice; a recipe; a special prayer; to share a funny story; to seek guidance through pain and mourning; or especially to celebrate. She immediately and unreservedly offered her hand to anyone who needed support and love; and appreciated the opportunity to offer her undivided attention in humble and quiet ways. She sat endless hours in nursing homes holding the hands of lonely or forgotten souls. She would visit, read, pray with them, or sit quietly and provide comfort. It wasn’t unusual for her to go on a visit to dear friend and end up holding the hand of a stranger. To Louise, it never mattered if she was recognized, she believed that her purpose was to be a source of God’s love to everyone.

Her family takes peace and comfort knowing that Louise was a strong believer in Christ and has gone to be with her Lord.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earnest and Mirtie Freeman, and her beloved husband, Frank Maxwell, Jr.  She is survived by her daughters Ellen (Robert) and Christy (Marco) Maxwell; brother-in-law Farl (Judy) Maxwell, Sr.; grandchildren Maxwell, Sophia, and Elena; nieces and nephews Saralyn, Steven, and Farley Maxwell, Jr.

Visitation will begin at 10 am at First Freewill Baptist Church in Northport with service to follow at 11 am on Saturday, February 18, 2023.

Private family graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Robert McNelly, Marco Araya, Maxwell Brown, Leroy Freeman, Bob Wilson, and Murray Renfroe. Honorary pallbearers are Farl Maxwell, Sr. and Farl Maxwell, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to Hospice of West Alabama.