Lela Maxine (Stevens) Todd

Lela Maxine Todd, age 76, of Marble Hill, Missouri, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on June 18, 2025.

Born on July 26, 1948, Lela devoted her life to caring for others. She worked as a Head Start teacher in Marble Hill for over 30 years, touching countless young lives with her kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication.

Maxine was the heart of her family, a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her love language was cooking, and the kitchen was always filled with the comforting aroma of something homemade and made with love. She had a gift for bringing people together through food whether it was a holiday meal, a simple weekday dinner, or an impromptu visit from friends or family. When she called everyone to the table, you'd best not be a minute late. She took immense joy in preparing meals for others and made sure no one ever left her home hungry.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Dennis Todd; daughters, Lynn (Rob) Kelley, Donna (Willie) Wells, Theresa (Mike) Henson, and Debbie Todd; her cherished grandchildren: Dwayne, Steven, Christopher, Brittany, Chase, Mercades, Cheyenne, Madison, Amber, Dawn, Kelsey, Chloe, Haylee and Christopher; and 17 great-grandchildren who brought her immense pride and joy.

Maxine is also survived by her sisters, Vernadine Angel, Brenda (Tim) Lincoln, and Viola (Tim) Wilkinson.

She was preceded in death by her sisters, Vanna Beard and Shirley Bollinger; her brothers, Marion Stevens, Leroy Stevens, and David Stevens; and her stepson, David Todd.

Maxine loved traveling in the camper with Dennis, enjoying the simple pleasures of life, and making lasting memories wherever they went. Her fierce spirit, nurturing soul, and deep love for her family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Services will be held on Saturday, June 21st, 2025, at Hutchings-Pendergrass Funeral Chapel in Marble Hill, Missouri. Visitation will be from 10:00am to 12:00pm. Funeral Service will begin at 12:00pm, with Monnie Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Lessley Ridge Cemetery.