Who’s Been Around the Neighborhood Awhile? - Maxine

by Barbara DeCofano

Maxine Cambra was born in Los Angeles Co., but at the tender age of eight, the family moved to Mt. Camino, between Red Bluff and Corning, where her family were ranchers. At a dance in Hamilton City, she met her future husband, Joe, who was born in Chico. They were married in 1948. Joe was a truck driver in the Chico area until 1969 when the couple moved to Cottonwood. After Joe “retired,” he still drove for FedEx. Joe was baptized as a youth. He went home to be with the Lord in ‘01.

The family grew to include Diana, Sharlot, Sharon, and Joe. Maxine was a stay-at-home mom, and she wrote for the Anderson Valley Post, and still does! She also had a modeling school for girls 8-10, where they learned good manners, how to dress and behave properly, and how to prepare for pageants.

Her love of writing has been a constant. For 13 years, Maxine has headed up a writing club at NCAC, “Quills of Faith.” They meet the second Monday of each month at 7:30pm. Call Maxine if you are interested in joining. She just finished a book about life in Korea in 1952, “Teen Historical,” that she hopes will be published soon.

It was Eleanor Reynolds who introduced Maxine to NCAC, the Ladies Bible study classes, and finally to her being baptized with our own Kitty Waters. Maxine became NCAC’s first church secretary and has continued with Ladies Bible studies, Home Church, and she serves on the Food Ministry, when needed. She enjoys the old hymns and has many special Bible verses, but her all-time favorite is 2 Corinthians 4:16.

When this very dedicated and busy lady has any spare time, she enjoys reading, walking, and playing dominos with friends. Always ready to greet people with her ready smile and to be there when needed, Maxine is an example of the true Christian spirit.