Maxine Marie Harkins

Maxine Marie Harkins, born on September 25, 1936, in Zolfo Springs, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, at the age of 89. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.

Maxine is survived by her daughters, Belinda Gail Helms and her husband Terry of Jefferson, Leola Marie Motes and her husband Jimmy of Cleveland, Doris Stewart and James samples of Pendergrass, and JoAnne Santiago and her husband Michael of Clarkesville. She cherished her role as a grandmother, leaving behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Melissa Fortson (Shannon), Shaun Harkins (Kristyn), Brandon Harkins, Dustin Harkins, Destiny Harkins, Amanda Wyatt (Adney), Felicia Stewart (Rustum), Kevin Stewart (Kristen), Christi Stinchcomb (Chip), Christopher Santiago, Ashley Steinberger (Nolan), and many, many great-grandchildren who will carry forward her memory in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Hoyt Dock Harkins, and her son, Hoyt Keith Harkins. Maxine was also mourned by her siblings, brother Samuel Thomas Dillard and sister Geraldine Louise Hartley, as well as her grandchildren Shannon Helms and Dwayne Motes.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on December 17, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Lawson Funeral Home, located at 4532 Highway 53, Hoschton, GA 30548. The funeral service will follow on December 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM, also at Lawson Funeral Home, with interment to take place after the service.

Honoring Maxine as pallbearers will be Christopher Santiago, Shaun Harkins, Brandon Harkins, Nolan Steinberger, Chip Stinchcomb, and Kevin Stewart. Honorary pallbearers include Adney Wyatt, Shannon Fortson, Nathan Stinchcomb, Logan Stinchcomb, Caleb Wyatt, and Austin Francis.

Maxine Marie Harkins will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family and her enduring spirit that inspired all who knew her. She leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories and an indelible mark on the hearts of her loved ones.

Arrangements by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Hwy 53 Hoschton, Ga., 30548. Lawsonfuneralhome.org. 706-654-0966.