When people hear the name Tommy Chong they instantly think of comedy movies and the famous Cheech & Chong duo. But behind that fame once stood a woman of great dignity and kindness Maxine Sneed.
While she never chased the spotlight, her story is one worth telling. From her early years to her role as a mother and her life after marriage she represents quiet strength that often goes unnoticed.
In this article, we’ll talk about Maxine Sneed’s life how she met Tommy Chong, the love they shared the family they built and what happened after. If you think you already know her story you might be surprised by what you learn.
Let’s start from the beginning.
Quick Bio of Maxine Sneed
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Maxine Sneed |
| Date of Birth | September 23, 1940 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 85 years old |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American & Canadian |
| Ethnicity | Afro-Canadian and Cherokee |
| Profession | Former Editor, Journalist |
| Known For | First wife of Tommy Chong & mother of Rae Dawn and Robbi Chong |
| Marriage | Married Tommy Chong (1960–1970) |
| Children | Rae Dawn Chong (stepdaughter, raised as her own) and Robbi Chong |
| Residence (2025) | Los Angeles, California |
| Notable Traits | Kind, private, resilient, supportive mother |
Who Is Maxine Sneed?
Maxine Sneed was born on September 23, 1940, in the United States. She carries both American and Canadian nationality, with her roots tracing back to Afro-Canadian and Cherokee heritage. This unique background gave her a graceful presence and a strong sense of identity that would shape the way she lived her life.
Unlike many who become famous because of who they marry, Maxine Sneed always valued her privacy. She was described by people who knew her as calm, thoughtful, and kind. She never tried to build a public persona, even when her life was connected to Hollywood through her marriage to Tommy Chong.
Her story reminds us that not all legacies come from fame. Sometimes, the most powerful stories are built quietly, through love, sacrifice, and resilience. And that’s exactly what makes Maxine Sneed’s life so meaningful.
Maxine Sneed’s Early Life and Education
Growing up, Maxine Sneed lived in a home that encouraged discipline and values. Though she rarely spoke about her parents publicly, it is believed that her father may have been a firefighter and her mother a nurse. These strong parental influences likely taught her the importance of responsibility and service to others.
As a child, she enjoyed writing, dancing, and taking part in school plays. These hobbies shaped her creative side and helped her grow into a confident young woman. She was also active in sports and enjoyed cycling with friends, balancing her artistic side with physical activity.
After high school, Maxine Sneed pursued higher education. She graduated from college in 1962, although the exact subject of her studies remains private. Still, it is clear that education was a cornerstone of her life, and it later influenced her professional career as an editor.
How Maxine Sneed Met Tommy Chong
The turning point in Maxine Sneed’s life came in 1959 when she met a young Tommy Chong. They were introduced at a party through her brother Bernie, who happened to be one of Tommy’s bandmates at the time. What started as a simple introduction quickly turned into a romance.
By September 23, 1960 — her own birthday — the couple decided to marry. The wedding was intimate, with close friends and family present. At that time, Tommy was not yet a household name. He was still working hard in the music world, trying to establish himself. Through those early struggles, Maxine Sneed stood firmly by his side.
Their marriage marked the beginning of a family life filled with ups and downs. It also highlighted one of Maxine Sneed’s greatest qualities — her ability to stand strong and supportive during challenging times.
Raising Rae Dawn with Love
One of the most remarkable chapters in Maxine Sneed’s life is the way she raised Rae Dawn, Tommy Chong’s daughter from a previous relationship with Gail Toolson. When Rae Dawn was just a baby, custody was given to Tommy, and Maxine Sneed embraced her fully as her own child.
She cared for Rae Dawn with deep love, never making a distinction between her biological child and stepchild. Years later, Rae Dawn publicly expressed that she considered Maxine Sneed her true mother. This bond was built not on blood but on love, patience, and everyday care.
Her role in raising Rae Dawn shows how Maxine Sneed lived her life — with quiet grace and an unshakable sense of responsibility. It proves that being a mother is not only about giving birth but also about showing unconditional love.
Welcoming Robbi Chong into the Family
In 1965, Maxine Sneed gave birth to her daughter, Robbi Chong. With two daughters now under her care, she fully devoted herself to motherhood and family life. Robbi would later grow into a successful actress and model, following a similar path to her sister Rae Dawn.
During this time, Tommy Chong was still building his career. Maxine Sneed played the role of a supportive wife, maintaining the household and making sure the children grew up in a loving environment.
Her quiet dedication is what kept the family stable, even as Tommy’s professional life grew busier. Many who know the story credit Maxine Sneed with being the anchor that kept everything balanced.
Maxine Sneed’s Career as an Editor
Outside of her role as a wife and mother, Maxine Sneed also pursued her own career. She worked as an editor for Black Radio Magazine, a publication that celebrated and highlighted Black voices in media.
Her role involved editing articles, refining stories, and ensuring that voices from underrepresented communities were heard. In addition to her work at the magazine, she also contributed to health and lifestyle publications.
Although she was not widely recognized, her contributions to journalism were significant. Maxine Sneed proved that she had her own voice and influence beyond her marriage and family. She carved out a career that reflected her values of empowerment and storytelling.
The End of Her Marriage to Tommy Chong
Unfortunately, not all love stories last forever. Maxine Sneed and Tommy Chong divorced in 1970, although some reports suggest the separation may have been finalized a few years later. Rumors point to Tommy’s infidelity as a reason, particularly his relationship with Shelby Fiddis, who would later become his second wife.
Despite the heartbreak, Maxine Sneed never spoke badly about Tommy in public. She maintained her dignity, focusing instead on her daughters and their well-being.
Her response to the divorce showed once again her strength. While many could have turned bitter, Maxine Sneed chose to move forward with grace and maturity.
Life After Divorce
After the split, Maxine Sneed dedicated herself to raising Rae Dawn and Robbi. She moved with them to Detroit for a while before eventually settling in Los Angeles. She continued to work, provide stability, and encourage her daughters to pursue their dreams.
Even more surprising is the fact that she continued to support Tommy, even after the divorce. She lent him her car, gave him money during hard times, and even helped care for one of his children from his second marriage. Her generosity speaks volumes about the kind of person Maxine Sneed is.
Her story after divorce is proof that strength doesn’t always come from fame or wealth. Sometimes, it comes from kindness, forgiveness, and the ability to keep moving forward without bitterness.
What Does Maxine Sneed Enjoy in Life?
While she lived much of her life in connection to famous names, Maxine Sneed preferred a peaceful, private lifestyle. She practiced yoga and meditation, showing her belief in caring for both mind and body. She also loved animals, especially cats, and often treated them like family members.
Travel was another passion of hers. Over the years, she explored parts of Canada, the United States, and even visited Europe. These journeys gave her joy, but she always returned to her quiet way of living.
Even today, Maxine Sneed continues to live with that same calm approach to life. Her choices show that true happiness often comes from simplicity, not from chasing the spotlight.
Where Is Maxine Sneed Now?
As of 2025, Maxine Sneed resides in Los Angeles, away from media attention. She isn’t active on social media, nor does she give interviews. Instead, she prefers private family gatherings and spending time with her daughters.
Her story rarely makes headlines, but her influence continues through her children and the values she passed on. Rae Dawn and Robbi both speak fondly of her, crediting her with much of their success and strength.
In a world obsessed with fame, Maxine Sneed is proof that a life lived with kindness and integrity is just as powerful as one lived in the spotlight.
Final Thoughts
Maxine Sneed is not about fame or wealth. It is about strength, love, and resilience. She raised children with care, built her own career, and remained kind even in difficult times.
Her life shows that being strong doesn’t always mean being loud. Sometimes, it means being steady, graceful, and full of heart. And that’s exactly the legacy Maxine Sneed carries with her.
FAQs about Maxine Sneed
1. Who is Maxine Sneed?
Maxine Sneed is the first wife of actor and comedian Tommy Chong. Born in 1940, she is of Afro-Canadian and Cherokee descent. She worked as an editor and is known for raising her daughters Rae Dawn and Robbi Chong.
2. Did Maxine Sneed raise Rae Dawn Chong?
Yes, she did. Although Rae Dawn was Tommy Chong’s daughter from a previous relationship, Maxine raised her as her own child from infancy. Rae Dawn has often said that she considers Maxine her true mother.
3. What career did Maxine Sneed have?
Maxine Sneed worked as an editor for Black Radio Magazine and contributed to other lifestyle and health publications. Her career focused on storytelling and amplifying underrepresented voices.
