(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)Ruth Maxine Lambeth, known affectionately as Maxine by those who loved her, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family on July 23, 2025, at the age of 98 in Joplin, MO. Born on February 25, 1927, in Carthage, MO, Maxine was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew her. Her unwavering kindness and generous spirit were the hallmarks of a life well-lived.
Maxine grew up in Sarcoxie, MO, where she would become the oldest-standing member of the First Baptist Church, a testament to her faith and commitment to her community.
She graduated from Sarcoxie High School, going on to work alongside her husband in the family flower shop before embarking on a fulfilling career as the Wildwood secretary for twenty-four years. Her dedication to the children and staff was evident in her daily interactions and the care she took in her work. Upon retirement, she devoted her time to caring for her mother, exemplifying her nurturing nature.
Family was the cornerstone of Maxine's life. She leaves behind a legacy of love with her son, Bruce Lambeth and wife Margie of Wentworth, MO; her cherished grandchildren, Scott Lambeth and wife Crystal, Austin Lambeth and wife Julie, Traci Lambeth Stokes and husband Mike, Shelly LeMasters and husband Brent, and Angie Strong and husband Shannon. The joy of her life was further multiplied by her fifteen great-grandchildren, eighteen great-great-grandchildren, with one more blessing on the way. Maxine also leaves behind her daughter-in-law, Linda Lambeth; sister, Lora Lee Sundy; sister-in-law, Linda Castor; and numerous nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. Her extended family and a multitude of friends will forever remember her warm embrace and the love she so freely gave.
Maxine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Max Lambeth; her son, Steven Lambeth; her parents Delmar Wayne and Myrl Faye (Smith) Castor; and her siblings Vida Evelyn Arnold, Wayne Castor, and Elvis Castor. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with her loved ones in eternal peace.
Her creative spirit found joy in oil painting and ceramics, hobbies that allowed her to express her love for beauty and her attention to detail. Maxine's artwork and handcrafted ceramics are cherished heirlooms that will continue to bring beauty to the lives of her family and friends.
Family was the cornerstone of Maxine's life. She leaves behind a legacy of love with her son, Bruce Lambeth and wife Margie of Wentworth, MO; her cherished grandchildren, Scott Lambeth and wife Crystal, Austin Lambeth and wife Julie, Traci Lambeth Stokes and husband Mike, Shelly LeMasters and husband Brent, and Angie Strong and husband Shannon. The joy of her life was further multiplied by her fifteen great-grandchildren, eighteen great-great-grandchildren, with one more blessing on the way. Maxine also leaves behind her daughter-in-law, Linda Lambeth; sister, Lora Lee Sundy; sister-in-law, Linda Castor; and numerous nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. Her extended family and a multitude of friends will forever remember her warm embrace and the love she so freely gave.
Maxine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Max Lambeth; her son, Steven Lambeth; her parents Delmar Wayne and Myrl Faye (Smith) Castor; and her siblings Vida Evelyn Arnold, Wayne Castor, and Elvis Castor. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with her loved ones in eternal peace.
Her creative spirit found joy in oil painting and ceramics, hobbies that allowed her to express her love for beauty and her attention to detail. Maxine's artwork and handcrafted ceramics are cherished heirlooms that will continue to bring beauty to the lives of her family and friends.
Maxine's life was a testament to the virtues of love, generosity, and kindness. She had the rare ability to make everyone around her feel like family, and her smile was a source of comfort and joy. Her big heart and the laughter she shared will be profoundly missed, but her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched.
Graveside services for Maxine are 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Sarcoxie Cemetery with Pastor Scott Pogue officiating. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Brandon Stokes, Taylor Lambeth, Garrett Lambeth, Adrian Harter, Trevor Lambeth, Brett Strong and Michael Castor. Honorary pallbearers are Brandon Strong, Shannon Strong, Scott Lambeth, Michael Stokes, Brent LeMasters and Austin Lambeth. Visitation will be Monday evening from 6-8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to the First Baptist Church of Sarcoxie in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-goodwinfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, MO.

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