Maxine Lucille Stiles, longtime Newkirk resident, died Tuesday, March 28, 2020 in the Select Specialty Hospital, Oklahoma City. She was 79.

The daughter of Marvin Roscoe White and Anna Katherine Teutken White, Maxine was born Nov. 19, 1940 on the family farm east of Newkirk. She grew up in Kaw Country on the family farm and attended Consolidated 106 School, located just adjacent to the family farm, through the eighth grade. She then attended Newkirk High School, graduating with the Class of 1958. Maxine continued her education and completed a Bachelors of Science degree in Education from Central State University in 1961. She later earned her Master’s degree in Teaching from Central State College in 1966.

On Aug. 19, 1961 Maxine and John Lewis Stiles were married in Newkirk, and they established their first home in Deerfield, Kansas where Maxine began her career in education, teaching Business and Home Economics. The couple later returned to Edmond and then lived many years in Oklahoma City. Maxine devoted her life to teaching and counseling in both public and private schools. She spent many years as a school counselor in Crooked Oak Schools and later in the Moore Public School district from which she retired in 2000. After retirement, Maxine and John moved to the White family farm east of Newkirk.

Maxine was a dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church and through the years held many positions with United Methodist Women. She was an active member of Tri Sigma Sorority and held many positions in her Edmond alumni chapter. She was a recipient of the Outstanding Tri Sigma Alumna award and earned her Golden Violet in 2010. Maxine served her Newkirk community as a sponsor of Newkirk Junior Main Street and as a member of Newkirk Main Street, the Newkirk Historical Organization, the Newkirk Chamber of Commerce, Kay County Retired Teachers and 106 Community Center. Maxine also served on the board of the Newkirk Educational Foundation. She enjoyed traveling, fishing and spending time with her two grandsons. Maxine was a beloved wife, mom and nana. Throughout her life, Maxine loved to work with and mentor young people. She will be remembered for her service to others and the many lives she touched as a volunteer, mentor and counselor.

Maxine is survived by John, her husband of nearly 60 years; their daughter and son-in-law, Mindy and Geoff Blackman of Norman; two grandsons, Calder Blackman and Hadden Blackman;and many other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Mary Ann White Gallagher and Geraldine White Wolfe; and a half-brother, Howard Donald White.

Private family graveside services were held Monday, April 6 in the Newkirk Cemetery with the Rev. Susan Rice, minister of the First United Methodist Church of Newkirk officiating. A celebration of Maxine’s life will be held at a later date. Miller-Stahl Funeral Service was in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to honor Maxine may be made to the Newkirk Educational Foundation, P.O. Box 392, Newkirk, Oklahoma 74647. paid obituary

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