Maxine J. (Ayotte) McPherson, 82, died at home on Sunday, September 27, 2015, after a brief illness. She leaves three sons, Dale G. McPherson and his wife Robin of Worcester, Peter W. McPherson and his wife Linda of Ranger, Georgia, David B. McPherson and his wife Kim of Rutland; two brothers, Beryl and Bernard Ayotte; a sister, Jeanette Ayotte, all of Maine; nine grandchildren, Jamie, Shelly, Melanie, Matthew, Leanne, Brian, Peter, Jr., Philip and Megan; 24 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. A son, Alan P, McPherson died May 17, 2013, a grandson, Scott S. McPherson died March 31, 2006, and her former husband, Walter P. McPherson, died November 8, 1978. She was born in Presque Isle, Maine, daughter of the late Mack and Edna (Higgins) Ayotte and graduated from schools in Presque Isle. She moved to Worcester in 1951.

Maxine was the activities director at Lincoln Nursing Home for 34 years until she retired. She previously worked for 10 years at Astra Pharmaceutical. She had also been a foster mother with You, Inc. for 14 years. She was a long time member of St. Bernard’s Parish, now known as Our Lady of Providence Parish. She enjoyed children, crafts, reading, babysitting, vacationing in Maine, and spending time with her family. She will be remembered for her kind heart and generosity.

After cremation, A MEMORIAL CALLING HOUR will be held from 9:15 A.M. to 10:15 A.M. on THURSDAY, OCT. 8 at KELLY FUNERAL HOME, 154 Lincoln St., followed by a MEMORIAL MASS at 11 A.M. in ST. BERNARD’S CHURCH, 228 Lincoln St. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton, MA.