Former Pampa resident celebrates century mark

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Cecilia Maxine Houchin Carruth, formerly of Pampa, Lefors and Borger, will be celebrating her centennial birthday on Saturday, July 2.

Cecilia Maxine Houchin Carruth was born in Commerce, Texas July 2, 1922 to Victoria & Cecil Houchin. She was named after her father and was the oldest of five children.

She attended Pampa ISD but moved to Lefors and graduated from Lefors High School.

She attended Texas Tech after, where she was president of the debate team. School was interrupted so she could go back to the Panhandle and marry the love of her life, Raymond Andrew Carruth.

They were married for fifty six years and had four children, three sons and one daughter. Two sons are deceased, David and Dane Carruth. She has a daughter Diane and husband David, and a son Dennis and wife Linda. She has seven grandchildren, Zach Farley, Cash Carruth, Raymond Carruth, Kassi Rohlack, Cody Carruth, Cody Reams and Annie Cleavinger. Also, a brother, Bob Houchin. She has 16 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Maxine lived in Borger until the 2000s when she moved to McAllen to be closer to family in her later years.

Maxine is known for her warm, welcoming smile, friendly personality and her service to her church, Faith Covenant, and her community in Borger. A wonderful, dedicated mother and homemaker, she has an unwavering faith in God. Over the years she has taught many Sunday school classes, Scout Leader, and a PTA officer. Her accolades are many, for she was very community minded and participated in several organizations. She was a talented Artist, violinist, and a member of The Borger Arts Club. She was President of Collector’s Club, President of 20th Century Club, Lifetime Member of the Federated Women’s Club, Director of the Opportunity Center for Retirees, Chairman of Heart, Cancer & Polio Association, Census Drives & Election volunteer.

Her daughter, Diane, said “She was very family and community-minded. She wanted to do the best she could for her community. She has many friends in Pampa.”

A formidable & active member of her Bridge Club.

Please feel free to mail cards to Diane Farley, PO Box 2917, McAllen, TX 78502.