
A faithful servant of the Lord, Maxine Reed Carlson, 86, left her pain-ridden body and met her Savior face to face on June 23, 2024.
Fifteen years. In retrospect, Fred and Maxine Carlson were given just that long (1984-1999) to forge the foundation of what Bibles International would become. Fred was tasked with defining the organizational framework and policies of BI. Maxine, with just as clear a calling from God, came to the task with a softer edge and a passion straight from her heart.
Maxine was that rare combination of traits that brought harmony, not chaos; kindness, not upset; laughter along with a strong work ethic; frugality that did not exclude generosity. Amidst the challenges of forming Bibles International, she never lost her enjoyment of fun and adventure. In serving, she had a Martha work ethic but enjoyed so very much sitting at the feet of Jesus, just like Mary.
As the director’s wife, Maxine was a woman of grace and dignity, representing BI well in any setting. She had a true love for missionaries and missionary children. Some who became part of BI relocated from foreign mission fields, perhaps because of the trauma of war or life-changing illnesses. Their transition to serving in a Bible Society office was made easier with the realization that they were joining a welcoming and caring family. Maxine was a major factor in creating that kind of environment, and she undergirded it with fervent prayer.
Maxine remarked that her early years at BI were spent caring for, feeding, “coffeeing”, and housing BI missionaries and prospective team members. Her hospitality was 24/7, with so much of it overflowing into the Carlson home that it was referred to as the Ritz Carlson Hotel. Maxine was a fabulous cook and a matchless organizer. When she planned a BI event, she planned on a grand scale.
Hostess, receptionist, editorial assistant for Briefings, guide for the many BI volunteers, mentor, speaker at ladies’ meetings; we can’t cover all aspects of Maxine’s work. But not long before her passing, Maxine made this comment: “I liked working with the people, and I was grateful to assist in any way I could to get God’s Word out to those who did not have it.” At the core, this daughter of a pastor and then wife of a pastor loved telling others about the Savior she knew so well.
Maxine leaves behind her husband Fred and “the lights of my life,” her children – Rev. Gregory, Bradley, Jeffrey, Rev. Kelly, and Sonja Ketcham – and their spouses. Additionally, the Lord has given the Carlsons 25 grand-children and 26 great-grandchildren.
Memorial gifts may be sent to Bibles International.
Link to Maxine’s memorial service - https://youtu.be/g-RBjnrWMqU