Maxine Caudill Back, 92, of Noctor, Kentucky passed away peacefully at her home Thursday, May 14, 2026. Born on March 8,1934 in Breathitt County, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Troy and Cleda Hounshell Caudill.
Maxine led a life devoted to her family, faith, and creative pursuits. A homemaker and published author, she found joy in writing books and contributing articles to the local newspaper. Her love for storytelling and the written word left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of reading her work. She was also an avid reader herself and found solace in the pages of books. Maxine cherished simple pleasures such as walking, watching birds and spending time with her beloved family—especially her grandchildren.
A woman of deep faith, Maxine was a member of Palmer Memorial Church in Noctor and United Baptist Church at Guage. Her spiritual life was a cornerstone of her existence and provided her with strength throughout her years.
Maxine is survived by her children: sons, Ray Douglas Back Jr., James Robert Back (Nancy) and daughter, Monica Elaine Baxter (Ray). She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Amanda Back Collins (Brian), Troy Baxter (Laura) and Ray Daniel Back (Jamie); great-grandchildren: Morgan Baxter, Tyler Baxter, Ryan Daniel Back and Lazarus James Back; as well as adopted grandsons, Kenneth Fugate (Glenna) and Dave Fletcher (Gerri) and adopted great grandson, Jason Welch. Her extended family includes nephew, Dewey Caudill; nieces, Roberta Vires, Ruth Fugate and Patricia Clemons; cousins, Marcella Spicer, Brenda Pugh, Brenda Barger, Christine Dunn, Ancil Hounshell, Marlene Turner and Roger Turner; along with special friends and neighbors, Larry and Tina Hensley and Dave Fletcher and family.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Ray Douglas Back Sr.; son, Richard Dale Back; grandson, Roman Dale Back; parents, Troy and Cleda Hounshell Caudill; brother, James Edward Caudill; infant brother, William Ray Caudill; and great-nephew, Nathan Caudill.
Visitation for Maxine is scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026 at the Breathitt Funeral Home from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM with her funeral service to be held Sunday, May 17, at 11:00 AM with Dave Fletcher and Greg Hall officiating.
Burial will follow in the Williams Cemetery at Noctor with her grandsons serving as pallbearers.
Maxine’s legacy is one of love for family, dedication to faith, and passion for creativity. Her memory will live on through the lives she touched with her kindness and through the stories she shared with the world. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.
