Obituary for Maxine Barnes Kelley

Maxine Barnes Kelley, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unmatched hospitality. Funeral services to celebrate her life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 31st, in the Southern Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Dick DeBusk officiating. Burial will follow in Bethlehem Cemetery under the direction of Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield. Friends are invited to visit with the family prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Born to Thomas Harrison and Veda Barnes, Maxine was raised in Winn Parish, where she attended Calvin High School. Her exceptional talent in the kitchen emerged early, highlighted by her award-winning apple pie recipe that earned her a trip to Kansas City—a journey that marked her first venture beyond her hometown.

Maxine married Marvin Julian Kelley, a pipeline welder whose work took them on a remarkable journey around the globe. Together, they lived in far-flung places such as Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium, South America, and Singapore. Despite her travels, Maxine's heart was always centered on family and the comforts of home.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Julian Kelley; her son, Michael Jeffrey Kelley; her sister, Mary Bell Watson; and her parents, Thomas Harrison and Veda Barnes. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Julia Rhonda Kelley; her cherished grandchildren, Sarah Ann Davidson, Makayla Jyssica Kelley, and Manning Gauge Kelley; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Barnes Davidson and Julia Marie Davidson.

Maxine's family was her pride and joy, and she delighted in the accomplishments and presence of her grandchildren. She created a home filled with warmth and love, where friends and strangers alike were made to feel welcome. Always ready with a pot of coffee and a homemade dessert, she insisted on fixing a plate for anyone who happened to drop by at mealtime.

An accomplished cook and baker, Maxine had a remarkable ability to recreate restaurant dishes by taste alone. Her gumbo, chicken and dumplings, cream pies, and fruit cobblers were legendary and enjoyed by all who had the privilege of sitting at her table.

Maxine's remarkable ability to connect with people was matched only by her love for them. She never met a stranger and could carry on a conversation with anyone about anything. Her vibrant personality, generous spirit, and culinary talents will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Serving as pallbearers are Manny Kelley, Joseph Stevenson, Robby Griffin, Vernon Weeks, Treyton Trawick, and James Haymon.