Maxie Hicks Schlechter

Maxie Ann Schlechter, age 85, of Dandridge, Tennessee, met her Heavenly Father on April 3, 2026, Good Friday, surrounded by her family.

Maxie’s love for her family was the cornerstone of her life. Her children and grandchildren were truly the light of her world, and she poured her heart into each of them with unwavering devotion. She cherished every moment spent together, creating memories filled with laughter and unconditional love.

She was never one to hold back—Maxie spoke her mind with honesty and heart, often leaving those around her smiling or laughing when they needed it most. Whether offering wisdom, sharing a story, or giving advice (wanted or not), she did so with a spirit of love that made everyone feel cared for and connected.

Grounded in her faith and love for her Lord and Savior, she was a member of First Baptist Church and French Broad Community Church of Dandridge, where no one was a stranger, and faith and joy could be seen in her eyes.

Maxie is preceded in death by her husband, Walter Schlechter, of 30 years, and parents Ben and Gladys Hicks; sister in law, Mary Belle Ruffolo (Henry).

Maxie leaves behind her children Marty (Susanne) Cate, Pam Cate, and Ben Schlechter of Dandridge, TN; grandchildren, Joseph (Tina) Cate, Heather (Nathan) Sartain, James (Jordan) Cate, Brendon “Goob” (Katie) Cate. Great-grandchildren; Haleigh Ausband (Brandon Skeen), Ethan Cate, Kyler Harrison, Addy Harrison, Tristan Cate; and one great-great grandchild, “Mister Beck” Skeen; step daughter, Daphne Schlechter Fielder (Byron); step son, Walter Edwin Schlechter III; brother in laws, John (Eleanor) Schlechter and Alvin (Sandy) Schlechter; sister in law, Janice Cole.

The family will receive friends at French Broad Community Church of Dandridge on Friday April 10, from 12-2pm, and service to follow at 2:00 with Pastor Justin Breeden officiating. Gathering immediately afterward in the church cemetery for the graveside service.