Maxine Barker

Maxine LaJune Barker, 90, died on December 3rd, 2020 at Westchester Village of Lenexa, surrounded by the care of nurses and staff members that have become family over the last few years.

Maxine was born April 11, 1930 in Coffeyville, KS to Rolly Covey and Ora Akins.

In 1948, she married McRae Douglas Barker. They were married for 52 years.

Maxine graduated from Central High school in Kansas City, KS in 1948. She then moved to Lawrence, KS to be with McRae while he attended pharmacy school at the University of Kansas.

In 1949 Maxine and McRae had their first child. Over the next 20 years Maxine stayed at home and cared for her 4 children.

Maxine then spent 32 years as a school secretary for the Olathe School District. Her contagious smile and love touched the hearts of so many students, families, and staff members over the years. After retiring from the school district, she continued working into her 80s in her son-in-law’s medical office.

She had a love for tennis, bingo, movies and reading, especially the Bible. Her faith in God kept her going every day, and her love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was unmeasurable.

Maxine is survived by her daughter Judy Barker of Olathe, KS; son David Barker of Olathe, KS; grandchildren Jessica and Demond, Chad, and Brittany; great-grandchildren Kaylee, Jordan, Phoenix, Nylah, and Daijah.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband McRae, son McRae (Mickey) Barker, daughter Jane Stevenson, and son-in-law Kent Stevenson.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Grace United Methodist Church, 11485 S. Ridgeview Rd. Olathe, KS 66061.

A celebration of Maxine’s life will be announced at a later date.