Maxine Gayle Carlson, 71, of Greensburg, Indiana, passed away on December 25, 2025. She was born on September 13, 1954, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the daughter of Gene and Dona Garrod Avery.
Maxine was a graduate of Hartford Public School in Hartford, Michigan. On March 18, 1978, Maxine married Gary Carlson, and together they shared many years of love and companionship. They were blessed with one son, Jeff, who was a great joy in her life. She dedicated over 37 years of service as a secretary at Lawrence Public School in Lawrence, Michigan. She enjoyed being around the students at the school, finding joy in brightening their days. During her career, she was grateful for the opportunity to work alongside her mother for several years.
She was a faithful member of Hartford Bible Church in Hartford, Michigan.
Maxine had a quiet, gentle spirit and brought a sense of peaceful comfort to those who knew her. She loved reading, camping, spending time with her family, and playing cards with friends alongside her husband, Gary. She also loved going to the theater to watch Christian concerts. Maxine deeply loved her family and cherished the impact they had on her life.
Maxine will be remembered for her kindness, her devotion to her family, and the quiet warmth she shared with everyone around her.
Survivors include her husband, Gary Carlson, of Greensburg, son, Jeff Carlson of Greensburg; grandsons, Caison Carlson, Amden Carlson and Pryor Carlson of Greensburg; brother, Larry (Carol) Avery; sister in laws, Gail Melville of South Bend, Indiana and Gwen Parrish of Port St. Lucie, Florida; and brother-in-law, Gregg (Michelle) Carlson in South Haven, Michigan; several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Donna Avery.
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 12:00 pm until the time of the memorial service at 1:00 pm at the Gilliland-Howe Funeral Home. Larry Avery will be officiating. A graveside service will be at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford, Michigan in the Spring. Memorial contributions can be made to the donor’s choic