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Maxine Morrison -- Former First Lady recalled as woman of steel, soft as silk
Family, friends and Nebraska dignitaries gathered Thursday afternoon to celebrate the life of Nebraska's former First Lady Maxine E. Morrison.
During funeral services at St. Alban's Episcopal Church in McCook, Mrs. Morrison was remembered for having the strength of steel and the softness of silk.
With lovingly emotional eulogies, her children and grandchildren told of the great impact she had on their lives and the lives of people in Nebraska and throughout the world.
Her husband, former Nebraska Gov. Frank Morrison, spoke glowingly after the service of the love and respect shown to Maxine during her final years. A special tribute was extended during the service to the staff of Hillcrest Nursing Home, who cared for Mrs. Morrison during the final six month of her earthly life.
Among those who gathered for the service were former U.S. Sen. Jim Exon and Nebraska Lt. Gov. Dave Heineman, who was appearing on behalf of Gov. Mike Johanns.
A special message was read from U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson, a student of Mrs. Morrison in his childhood years and a friend of the Morrison family in later years.
The homily was presented by the Rev. Charles Peek. The Rev. R. Samuel Williams served as the officiant, and the Rev. Bill Hunter was the lector.
Nebraska's current and a previous governor issued statements concerning former Nebraska First Lady Maxine Morrison.
U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson:
"I have been fortunate to know the Morrisons all my life. Maxine was my kindergarten teacher and Gov. Morrison served as my mentor during my early years in Nebraska politics. I'll never forget the life lessons I've learned from both of them.
"Maxine was a wonderful role model for all Nebraskans, dedicating her life to teach and to serving others. She was an inspiration as a teacher and as Nebraska's first lady and she was an inspiration as well later in life to those who called her a friend and neighbor.
"Though my hometown of McCook claims her as its own, she was truly a treasure to the entire state of Nebraska. Diane and I were fortunate to visit with Maxine when we were in McCook last month. My thoughts and prayers are with Gov. Morrison and the Morrison family at this time. Nebraska has lost a great lady and a fine woman who led a good life; the kind of life most Nebraskans can proud."
Gov. Mike Johanns:
"Maxine Morrison's love of life is reflected in the many ways she served our state, from her days as a dedicated school teacher to those as a gracious first lady of Nebraska," Gov. Johanns said.
"Maxine was an outstanding ambassador for Nebraska, just as her husband, former Gov. Frank Morrison, continues to be. On a personal note, the long-lasting love affair between Frank and Maxine is an inspiration and example for all married couples. Stephanie and I are grateful for the friendship we have shared with Frank and Maxine. Our thoughts and prayers are with Frank and their children at this difficult time."