Jennifer Maxine Needham (nee Palmer)
September 25, 1927 - March 20, 2023
After a long and rich life, Maxine Needham passed away peacefully in Sarnia Ontario. She was predeceased by her husband John B. Needham in 2010, her daughter Carrie J. Mechsner in 2008, as well as her 10 siblings and parents. Maxine is survived by her children Julie (Harold Jacques) and Jeffrey (Cynthia Gingerich), grandchildren John Jacques (Laura), Patricia Twogood (Jeremy), Georgia Needham and great-grandchildren Amelia and Yvonne Jacques and Felix Twogood. Her sister-in-law, Marilyn Palmer, and her nieces and nephews will treasure their memories of her. Maxine, as she was known to everyone, was born in St. Thomas Ontario, the 10th of 11 children born to George and Leonora Palmer. She spent most of her childhood in Sarnia, graduating from SCITS in 1946. Maxine then went on to The School of Nursing at Ontario Hospital in London, receiving her RN certification in June of 1949. She was a first rate nurse, bringing efficiency and competency to the various clinics and hospitals where she worked. Maxine married John Needham in 1950 and began a long partnership that lasted 60 years, raising 3 children, and involving herself in their various activities with encouragement and support. She was active at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian church where she taught Sunday School and baked thousands of her famous shortbread cookies for many church bazaars. Her culinary skills were not limited to cookies; Maxine loved to cook and entertain, preparing special meals for family and friends, which were always presented on a beautifully laid table. Mom and Dad enjoyed many travels together to Europe, the UK, Greece, and through most of Canada and the US. Maxine was a life long learner, a voracious reader and music lover. She could have an intelligent and informed discussion with anyone on many subjects. She played bridge for over 70 years, always enjoying the game from her days as a nursing student, then with friends and relatives. She successfully negotiated the various bidding systems as they came and went, skillfully adapting and consistently winning. Maxine’s family would like to thank the many people who made her last years comfortable with their care and compassion: Robin and her team at Landmark, and the staff at Afton Park Place. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday March 30th from 2 - 4 pm at McCormack Funeral Home, 254 George Street in Sarnia. Remembrances and condolences may be expressed to the family online in “Maxine’s Guestbook” at mccormackfuneralhomesarnia.com. Donations in Maxine’s memory may be made to the Victorian Order of Nurses or the Lambton County Music Festival.