Maxine Lathridge Flowers

Maxine Lathridge Flowers, a dedicated educator and beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, at Longview Regional Hospital. Born in the Gethsemane community to Irene and Norris Lathridge, Maxine was the youngest of two children in her parents' union and grew up surrounded by a large, close-knit family of eight siblings. She was raised in Gethsemane by her grandparents, Elijah and Mattie Jane, whose values helped shape her life.

A Legacy of Education and Perseverance

Maxine’s professional life was defined by an extraordinary work ethic and a deep commitment to personal growth. Alongside her husband, John Eugene Flowers, she embarked on a collaborative journey toward higher education. Through mutual support and shared sacrifice, they both achieved their Bachelor’s degrees from Wiley College and went on to earn their Master’s degrees from Prairie View A&M University. This shared academic success was a testament to their lifelong dedication to learning and to one another.

Her career as an educator spanned several decades, during which she became a respected and influential figure at Jefferson Independent School District, Crockett School for Girls, and Maude Independent School District. Known for her discipline and her direct, honest communication, she left an indelible mark on the lives of her students. Before finding her calling in the classroom, Maxine also demonstrated her versatility and drive through her work in the hospitality and manufacturing industries.

Faith and Fellowship

A woman of profound faith, Maxine was baptized at a young age and remained an active member of her spiritual community throughout her life. She was a dedicated participant in the church choir and Vacation Bible School at Berean Baptist Church, and she regularly attended Sunday school at St. Luke CME Church. Her life was guided by her core values of hard work and her unwavering belief in the gift of salvation.

Life’s Passions and Joys

Maxine found great joy in the world around her. She was renowned as an exceptional cook, and her time in the kitchen was a gift of love and comfort to her family and friends. An adventurous spirit, she also loved taking long drives to explore new terrain, finding peace and curiosity on the open road. She was a passionate fan of the Dallas Cowboys and enjoyed the soulful sounds of gospel and the blues, specifically B.B. King and Bobby "Blue" Bland.

Whether she was hosting family and friends, mastering a game of Bid Whist or dominoes, or enjoying a weekend trip to Bossier City, Maxine’s vibrant energy was always present. She also found quiet enjoyment in word puzzles and classic game shows like Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. At home, she found special companionship in her beloved pet cat, Cry Baby.

Family and Lasting Tribute

Maxine’s greatest pride was her family. She and her husband, John Eugene ("Baby Brother") Flowers, shared a devoted marriage of 62 years. Together, they raised three children: Monica Flowers, Pamela Flowers, and John Eugene Flowers II.

Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren:

• Amber Cook (Jason)

• Justin Higgs

• Pilar Flowers

• Kermit Berry

• Kobe Berry

She was also the proud great-grandmother of Alexis, Emory, and Joshua.

Maxine is survived by her siblings: Kaye Harper, Mary Redmond (Ernest), Elma Kirkwood (Glen), Francis Thompson (Carl), and Kay Willard Brown Jr. (Lola).

She also leaves to cherish her memory a devoted group of nieces and nephews: Keva Mack (DeAndre), Hermoine Shackleford, Crystal Lathridge, Kandis Brown, Kamra Brown, Myron Harper (Trina), John Williams, Marantz Payne, Emmanuel Kirkwood, Darius Kirkwood, Karrington Brown (Kate), Kandice Brown (Alex), and Kamira Glover (Tre), as well as a host of other relatives, former students, and friends who will miss her strength, her wit, and her enduring kindness.