Mrs. Maxene Harris

November 6, 1949 - December 11, 2017

Mrs. Maxene Harris, 71, of Peoria, IL; passed away at 4:47 pm on Monday, December 11, 2017 at UnityPoint Health Methodist Hospital. Maxene was born on November 6, 1949 in Peoria, IL to Mattie Mae (Johnson) Douglas Cary Matthews. She married Leroy Thomas; he preceded her in death. She later married Fred Harris; he also preceded her in death. Maxene loved to shop, was an avid reader and educator. She was a past librarian at Valeska Hinton for many years. She loved introducing children to reading and being around them. Maxene leaves to cherish her most precious memories, her loving and devoted sons, Timothy Thomas and Corey Thomas; one brother, Fredrick Matthews all of Peoria; two sisters, Ida Lee of Peoria and Almetter Knighten of Columbia, SC; 11 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Frazer Matthews and one sister, Phyllis Russell. A visitation will be held at 9 am and the funeral at 10 am on Saturday, December 23, 2017 at Sovereign Grace Baptist Church. Pastor Alvin Riley, Jr. will officiate. Maxene will be laid to rest at Swan Lake Memory Gardens. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com.