Maxine (Lane) Horne

Maxine Horne was born in Cordele, Georgia, on April 23, 1932. She was a remarkable beacon of resilience and compassion. As the third of four children, Maxine faced significant challenges early in life when she contracted Polio at age four. Despite the doubts of others regarding her dream of becoming a nurse, her indomitable spirit and unwavering determination propelled her forward.

After graduating from Vienna High School in 1949, Maxine pursued her nursing education at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, earning her RN degree in 1952. The friendships she forged during her training, particularly with her nursing school roommate, remained strong throughout her life, highlighting the enduring bonds created within the nursing profession.

Maxine began her nursing career at a hospital in Phenix City, Alabama. She later held positions in Florida and Georgia. Her family relocated to Rhea County in 1958, when her husband became the administrator of Rhea County Hospital, where she quickly became a beloved figure in the health care community. Her extensive career included roles such as charge nurse of the Medical/Surgical Unit at Rhea County Hospital. She also was a dedicated LPN class instructor, mentoring countless new nurses. She played a crucial role in delivering hundreds of babies until that service was discontinued. Her commitment to patient care earned her the respect and affection of colleagues, doctors, and the community.

Beyond her nursing duties, Maxine was actively involved in numerous organizations, including the American Cancer Society, Rhea Speech & Hearing Center, & the Rhea County Health Department. She established the School Nurse program in Rhea County, significantly enhancing the health and well-being of local children. She was heavily involved in the development of a program specifically for the migrant children in our community-one of her most proud accomplishments.  To complete a remarkable career, after retirement from Rhea County Hospital, Maxine joyfully accepted the position of School Nurse at Dayton City School. She loved those children deeply and respected and loved the staff and leadership there. She remained at DCS until her retirement at 85 years of age.

In addition to her professional life, Maxine ran a weekend catering business, enjoyed bowling on Thursday evenings and developed a lifelong passion for reading.

She was a lifelong member of Salem Baptist Church.

She is survived by Sheila Brown of Fort Worth , TX, Alan Horne (Liz) of Germanton, NC, and Alison Shelton (Peanut) (Gary) of Spring City, TN. She is also survived by 9 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren.

Services will be private. If anyone wishes to honor our mother, please donate to the organization of your choice in her name.

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