On June 17, 2024, at the age of 92, Maxine James Matney of Kettle Falls, Washington, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 1, 1931, to Lester Bayley and Jessie Brist, and later adopted by James and Effie (Stadler) Bayley in Colville, Washington, Maxine's life was full of joy and adventure.

Maxine began her schooling in Colville, then moved to Inchelium, Washington, for 2nd grade before returning to Colville in 8th grade, where she graduated in 1948. She cherished summers at Bayley Lake, swimming, fishing, and spending time with her cousins.

Maxine married Frank Matney on June 10, 1951. They moved from Pullman to Moses Lake, then to Tennessee while Frank served in the U.S. Air Force, and eventually returned to Kettle Falls to start their family. From 1954 to 1981, they operated Matney Lumber, where Maxine was loved by the employees, often mediating between them and their boss. Her warm hugs and caring nature continued to be felt by all who knew her, even after the mill sold.

In the mid-1980s, Maxine and Frank parted ways, and she moved to Spokane. She met and married Rich Nelson, a retired Air Force Pilot and they enjoyed traveling the world and attending their grandkids' events. After Rich passed away in 1999, Maxine met Bob Alderman in 2000. They spent summers in Kettle Falls and winters in Palm Desert, California, enjoying golf, card games, and dancing until Bob's passing.

Maxine had a passion for tennis, playing until she was 90 years old. She loved quilting, sewing, and later took up crocheting, always creating something for her loved ones. Maxine had a remarkable way of treating people, always welcoming delivery drivers and service providers with freshly baked cookies and a cold drink.

She loved taking and printing pictures, often sending them along with handwritten letters to bring smiles to her friends and family. Her letters, filled with stories, pictures, and jokes, were a testament to her thoughtfulness and love for others.

Maxine's impact on those around her was profound. She was selfless, loving, and made her family a priority. She hosted countless reunions and gatherings at her home in Kettle Falls, creating lasting memories for all.

Maxine is survived by her two sons, Mike (Lydia) Matney of Wrangell, AK, and Ron Matney (Tammy Ringer) of Colville, WA; grandchildren Casey (Heidi) Matney, Ginger Matney (Brad Grisom), Rick (Dori) Matney, Calin Matney (Viviana Mora Sanchez), Samantha Matney (Jay Martyn), Jennifer Matney (Mike Sublie), Jeff (Kristy) Matney, Samantha Gariepy, Ashley (Ryan) Hernandez, Alex Hart; 19 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; Brother John Bayley and cousin Elena (Doug) Shaw.

A memorial service with lunch provided will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at the Ag Trade Center in Colville, WA. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice. Please visit the online memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory are entrusted with the arrangements