Obituary

Elaine S. Max, 81, of Charleston, WV, passed away October 4, 2025.

She was born on May 3, 1944, in Chicago, IL, to Sol and Celia Shartsis.

The family subsequently moved to Parkersburg, WV, in 1958. She graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1961. In her freshman year at W.V.U. she met her future husband, Steve. They were married June 4, 1963, at B’nai Jacob Synagogue in Charleston, WV.

Elaine earned a degree in education at West Virginia University in 1965. After earning her degree in education, Elaine’s first teaching job was in Uniontown, PA. The following year, the couple moved to Charleston where she taught at South Charleston High School. Not long after, Elaine delivered their first son, Michael, followed by a second son, Scott. Elaine took leave from her teaching career to raise her family. When the boys were older, she went back to work as a teacher.

During her career, she taught at South Charleston, Stonewall and Ripley High Schools. She taught chemistry, physics, the gifted program and later she was a school psychologist. She later earned a Doctorate of Education in School Psychology. She retired in 2006 from Jackson County Department of Education.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Phyllis Ross.

Elaine is survived by her husband, Steve Max; sons, Michael (Stacey) and their children, Emily and Rachel of Buffalo Grove, IL, and Scott (Domicka) and their children, Kayla and Ethan of St. Albans, WV; and her sister, Diane Wax (Barry) of Sandia Park, NM.

Elaine was an avid reader, keeping up-to-date on computer technology and enjoyed playing with her dog, PJ.
The family would like to thank the dedicated teams at Amedisys and Charleston Fire Department Station #3 (Oakwood Rd.) for such caring support.

She was laid to rest on October 6, 2025, during a private ceremony at B’nai Jacob Eternal Home Cemetery, Charleston, WV, with Rabbi Adam Berman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to B’nai Jacob Synagogue or the charity of your choice.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home was entrusted with the arrangements.