Maxine Olive Ward McIntyre, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, died peacefully at her home in Arcadia on February 12, 2014, just a few months before celebrating her 101st birthday.

Maxine, a longtime resident of Pasadena, was born in Belgrade, Nebraska on June 15, 1913, the third of Dwight and Winifred Ward's six children. She was an exceptional student, a talented musician and a gifted teacher. She graduated from high school at the age of 15 and was honored by being both Valedictorian and Senior Class President. A pioneer in public education in Nebraska, she began her career teaching in rural schools. Later, after attending Wayne State Teachers College, she taught kindergarten in the Fullerton Elementary School. While there, she met and married Frank McIntyre. They were married for 63 years until his death in 1999.

The family moved to Pasadena in 1949 when Frank accepted an executive position with the California Teachers Association. In California, Maxine devoted herself to her family, using her talents to teach, guide, mentor and inspire her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was also active in community service, most notably with the PTA, DeMolay and Job's Daughters.

A tribute to her in the National Women's History Museum says, "Maxine McIntyre was among the many talented women of her generation who, through their accomplishments and their encouragement of those to follow, paved the way for future generations of women."

We will remember her for her intelligence, her wit, her strong and independent spirit, and her loving and selfless dedication to her family. Thanks Mom. We will always love you.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband Frank, her parents, and two sisters and two brothers. Surviving her are her son and daughter and their spouses, Joel McIntyre (Suzanne) and Jerilyn McIntyre Smith (David); her eight grandchildren and their spouses; 13 great-grandchildren (with another due in June) and spouses; one great-great-grandson; her brother, Howard Ward; and her extended family of nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Maxine's life will take place February 22, 2014 at a memorial service in San Gabriel.