AUGUSTA -Maxine (Hutchinson) Blackburn passed away on April 25, 2021, at her home.

The daughter of Sanford P. and Permelia (Millie) Hutchinson, Maxine was born in Hallowell, Me. on June 2, 1919. She graduated from Hallowell High School in 1937 with high honors.

She started working at the former Netmore Savage Electrical Supply, Augusta, which was later purchased by Westinghouse Electric Supply co. (WESCO). She became the first female Branch Administrative Manager in the United States. She retired on July 1, 1977.

Maxine joined the Navy (WAVES) on Jan. 15, 1943, and trained at Iowa State Teachers College and then transferred to the Navy Department in Washington, D.C. Eventually she was sent to MIT Navel Officers Training School where she did clerical work and was secretary to the Commanding Officer until she was honorably discharged from the Navy with a rank of Yeoman 1/C when World War II was declared over. She was offered a rank of Chief Petty Officer but she decided to get out on points.

Maxine was predeceased by her parents and her husband, John F. Blackburn. She also was predeceased by her five brothers, Calvin, Ernest, Bert, Clifford and Lincoln: four sisters, Erline, Geraldine, Juanita and Priscilla. She was predeceased by her loving companion, Joseph E. Poulin in 2011.

Maxine is survived by nieces, Nancy Sargent and Gloria Murphy; nephews, Carroll S. Tebbetts (Elizabeth), Lee E. Hutchinson (Carolyn), and three great nieces, Lorna, Lisa and Leslie the only maternal ones that work in close contact through the years.

Maxine was a caregiver to many relatives and friends. Her interests included exercising, walking, music, math and reading. She acquired her art ability from the teaching of her loving companion Joseph E. Poulin (famous artist in Maine). Her great nieces were the love of her life and she was forever grateful for all of her friends who did so much for her; especially, Eleanor, Ken, Elaine, Anita and Scott; including former co-workers who stayed in very close contact over the years. Her mentor was her dear friend Hope Weston.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Drive, Augusta, Friday May 7, 2021 at 12 p.m., noon.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers please give someone a hug today.

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