Maxine "Carr" Smith, a beacon of selflessness, warmth, and love, a Christian with a strong faith in God, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at the age of 40 in Jonesboro, AR. Born on September 16, 1984, in Dallas, TX, Maxine's radiant smile and driven sense of helping others shaped her career to create a loving family of both friends and co-workers. Maxine, known affectionately as a friendly and straightforward no non-sense individual, dedicated her life to the service of others. Upon completion of her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, she embarked on a career that would define her as much as she would define it. Maxine's passion for nursing was evident to all who worked alongside her. She began her journey as an ER Nurse and worked at AMMC, NEA, St Bernards, where her calm demeanor in an emergency and expert care saved countless lives and provided comfort to many families during their most challenging moments. Her commitment to her profession led her to become a Flight Nurse with Survival Flight, where her courage and skill helped her to realize this was her calling. Maxine's ability to remain composed under pressure made her a cornerstone of the teams she worked with, and her impact on the patients she cared for was profound and lasting. Later in her career, Maxine chose to share her knowledge and experience as a Paramedic Instructor, shaping the next generation of nurses and paramedic students with her wisdom and compassionate approach. She was revered by her students, who saw in her the epitome of what a nurse and EMS should be.

Maxine's devotion to her family was unparalleled. She met the love of her life, Justin Paul Smith, when they both began piano lessons together as children. Their reconnection later in life led to a wonderful marriage. Her greatest achievement and blessing of all were her daughters, Lola Mae Smith and Vada Jae Smith, whom she devoted her life to. She instilled in her daughters the values of kindness, courage, faith in God and the importance of making a positive difference in the world.

She was preceded in death by her first daughter, Molly Carr Smith.

Maxine is survived by her loving husband, Justin Paul Smith, and daughters, Lola Mae Smith and Vada Jae Smith. Her parents, Raymond and Tamara Carr. Her brother Phillip Carr who would not be alive today, if it weren't for Maxine's immediate reaction and nursing skill when it was discovered that he had an Aortic Aneurysm. Maxine took over and literally got the care flight there immediately and continued to supervise and monitor his care during Phillip's extended stay in Houston Texas. Her brother, Johnny Carr, and his son, Kolton of Midlothian, Texas.

Maxine's legacy is one of boundless generosity, unwavering support, and heartfelt connections. Her presence was a gift to those who knew her, and she will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives she saved and touched through her work and her spirit. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us, and her light will shine on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Maxine's journey through life was a testament to the profound impact one person can have on the world, and she leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come. Special thanks to the team of nurses and doctors at St. Bernard's ICU for their care.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday September 10, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home. The graveside service will begin at 1:30 p.m. at Finch Cemetery.