Joan Maxine Gore

Joan Maxine Smith Gore was born in College Park, MD. to the late Otha and Charlotte Smith on December 25, 1939.  She was the oldest of three siblings. On November 24, 2022, while enjoying her family’s Thanksgiving gathering, Maxine was unexpectedly called home to be with the Lord.

At a very early age her family relocated to the Eastern Shore of Virginia (Eastville), where she was educated by the Northampton County Public School System.  She graduated from Northampton County High School in 1958.  After graduation, she moved to Philadelphia, PA.  In 1959 she met and married a Sailor, the late Tom Boyd Gore, Sr. Shortly after, they relocated to Newburgh, NY and to this union six children were born. 

Maxine was a faithful employee of FedEx in Newburgh, NY.  After several years she transferred to the Newport New, VA location where she retired after 25 years of service.

She was a faithful member of Malachi House Life Center Church under Pastor Waverly and Dr. Mickey Collins. Maxine was very much loved by her church family as “Mother Gore”, and she fiercely loved them back. She was ordained as a Deacon.  She was lovingly called by many names, “Ma”, “Gramma”, “Gram”, “Aunt Maxine”, “Sister Cuzin”, “Sister  Sister”, and “Grandma” to many, blood or not. 

She leaves to cherish her very precious memories, Six children; Joan Denise Gore, Barbara Anita Gore Nelson (Vincent), Debra Faye Gore Melton, Tom Boyd Gore, Jr. (Linda), Teresa Gore Clark (Anthony) and Lisa Gore Ferguson; three siblings, Norman Agustus Smith, Sr. (Beverly), Otha Albert Smith, Jr. (Kay) and Joyce Smith Rivera; 17 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. While everyone was her “favorite”, she did have a special relationship with her great-granddaughter, Melina Bush, as she was a pillar of guidance and love in her upbringing.  

Maxine was the Matriarch of the family and was known for her faithfulness, generosity, wisdom and strength.  She was a role model and trusted mentor. She led a full and happy life and was loved by many.  Maxine may be gone but will never be forgotten as she will remain forever in our hearts.

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