Maxine S. Burns 80, of Abilene, passed away Friday, January 20, 2017. A Graveside service will be held at 12:00 P.M. Tuesday, January 24, 2017 in the Texas State Veterans Cemetery, under the direction of North's Funeral Home, 242 Orange St. The family will receive friends from 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. Monday, January 23, 2017 in North's Memorial Chapel, 242 Orange St. Mrs. Burns was born February 2, 1936, in Morton, Texas to Enoch and Bennie (Spickard) Smith. Maxine was a talented artist who studied under a world renowned painter. She loved music and played several instruments. She was a master architect, as her desire was to build good memories for her children and in that she was completely successful. She was a major force in building an enduring business with her husband of sixty-two years, Earl Burns. Maxine Burns was a member of the Oldham Lane Church of Christ. In recent years, she endured great suffering and fought strongly, until she stepped into Paradise, January 20, 2017. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Manuel Truman Smith and sister, Mary Lee Carter. She is survived by her husband, Earl C. Burns, two sons, Avery Blane Burns and Alan Neil Burns. One daughter; Regina Zoe Carlson. Two grandchildren, Chelsey and Levi Carlson all of Abilene. Four sisters; Mildred Eckstein, Dorothy Baird, Viola Hawthorn and Bennie O'Brien as well many nieces and nephews. "Her face now shines in Glory" In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to Meals on Wheels, Salvation Army or the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.northsfuneralhome.com