Nancy Wainer
I am beyond sad. Maxine and my parents were good friends in New Bedford. My dad, Mert Wainer and Maxine were in a few JCC music performances together over the years. Whenever I came to Florida to see my mother, we went over to spend time with Maxine. My partner Steve and I rented Sumner’s apartment in Delray for a few years and spent time with him and Maxine during those weeks. After my mother died, Maxine and I kept in touch frequently. She was like a mother and a sister combined to me. I called her often and we wrote letters back and forth – I could not get her to “do email” with me! I talked to her two weeks ago as I was packing to come to Florida and we were so looking forward to seeing one another. I arrived a few days ago and have been calling her. Today, I became concerned and called a hospital and was looking for the number for Richard when Paul called to tell me the news. I will miss her SO much, I loved her DEARLY. She called me (and probably several others as well) “Baby” and was the consummate hostess, always “pushing her homemade cookies and brownies on everyone who stopped by. She and I both have stuffed animals all over our places which we laughed about. She was so easy to talk to and so lovely to be with. She loved her family LIKE CRAZY and my caring and support go with all of you from now until forever. I am bereft – I was to see her this week and instead, will say goodbye.