It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Maxine Martin Baker — mother, grandmother, educator, mentor, and lifelong corrector of grammar whether you asked for it or not.

Born February 17, 1956, in Alamosa to Clarence and Ramona Martin, Maxine dedicated more than 27 years to the Alamosa School District, where she taught English and eventually led the department she loved so much. Thousands of students learned literature, writing, and probably the difference between "your" and "you're" because Maxine simply could not let incorrect grammar slide. It was both her gift and her calling.

Outside the classroom, Maxine's greatest pride was her faith and her family. She often said she was surrounded by some of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the world — all fortunate enough to share the Martin name. Her love for her children, grandchildren, extended family, students, and community was constant, fierce, and unmistakable.

Maxine is survived by her son, Preston (Courtney) Baker; daughter, Shelley (Daniel) Peterson; grandchildren Bristol Baker, Braelyn Baker, and Kinsley Peterson; sisters Lynette Schofield, Christine (Dan W.) Coombs, Aleece (Randy) Paulson, and Pamela (Leonard) VanAusdal; brother-in-law Derek Woodman; sister-in-law Ramona Martin; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and former students whose lives she deeply impacted.

She was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Ramona Martin; brother Dwight Martin; sister Mona Woodman; and brother-in-law J. Kelly Schofield.

Funeral services honoring Maxine's life will be held at the Riverwood Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 927 Weber Drive, Alamosa, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Public viewings will be held Monday, May 25 from 5:00–7:00 PM and Tuesday morning from 9:45–10:45 AM at the same location. Burial will follow at Sanford Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family is establishing a scholarship fund to help students continue their education — something Maxine believed in deeply.

Checks may be mailed in memory of Maxine Baker to:

Adams State University

208 Edgemont Blvd, Ste 3080

Alamosa, CO 81101

Please list "Maxine Baker" in the memo line.

Online donations may be made at https://www.adams.edu/foundation/online-donation/ and in the comments please put "In Memory of Maxine Baker."

Friends and loved ones are also invited to share stories, photos, and memories at memoriesofbaker@gmail.com

Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of the arrangements. To leave online words of comfort, remembrances of Maxine, and tributes for her family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com