Maxine Darby

Maxine Darby, age 89, passed away on February 15, 2026. She was born on February 17, 1936, in Kentucky, to her loving parents, the late Dodge and Elizabeth Hatfield. Maxine was the beloved wife of the late Donald E. Darby, and a devoted mother of Donna (Karl) Schultz, Kathy (John) Gable, Donald Darby, Robert Darby, and Ronald D. Hatfield. She was also a cherished grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.

Maxine was deeply devoted to her family and friends, always placing the needs of others before her own. She found great joy in quilting, baking, sewing, and lovingly caring for those around her. Gifted with a remarkable green thumb, she took pride in nurturing both her garden and the people in her life. Throughout it all, Maxine faithfully worked at Ford Motor Company until her retirement, balancing her career with her many passions.

Her greatest joy was her faith. Maxine loved attending church and rarely missed an opportunity to ask someone if they knew Jesus. Over the years, she taught Sunday School, brought children to church through the bus ministry, and ministered to residents in nursing homes. After becoming a widow, she felt called to encourage and support other widows in her church family. 

Even as her health declined and she resided at O’Neills Assisted Living, Maxine continued to share her faith, offering prayers and words of hope to everyone she encountered. Her legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion to Christ will live on in all who knew her.

Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 3 to 7 p.m., at Freedom Church 12401 Cooley Ave. Cleveland Ohio, 44111, where additional visitation will be held on Friday, February 20, 2025, at 10 a.m. until time of Homegoing Service at 11 a.m. Interment Brooklyn Heights Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Slone & Co. Funeral Directors.