Mother Florida Noreen Maxwell

Florida Noreen Maxwell, a radiant beacon of love, faith, and generosity, departed this earthly life to embrace her eternal rest. Born to the late Rev. Peter James and Willie Reid Williams, Florida’s journey began in the Sunshine State she’s named after, and where her passion for nurturing and caring for others took root.

In 1947, Florida united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Mr. Charles E. Maxwell; they married in Clearwater, FL, and two years later, moved to South Bend, IN, via Chicago, IL. The newlyweds began to create a legacy of love and family through their six living children: Charles Ronnie, Val Dez, Jacqueline, Bruce, Carolyn, and Rita. Together, "Granny and PaPa" raised not only their six children but countless others; they welcomed nephews, Robert Johnson Jr, Maurice Johnson, Cornell Johnson, Kenny (Kim) Johnson, Michael Johnson, and Sylvester Johnson; God-daughter, Tina (Darrin) Taylor; and Bonus Children & loved ones, Ruthie Brady, Stella (Cecil) McConnell, Sherry Phillips, Brenda Martin-Groves, Charlotte Taylor; and In-Loves, Michael (Brenda) Mitchell, Sr, NaThelma Maxwell, Minnie Maxwell, and Denise Maxwell into their fold. Florida also embraced the special role of raising grandchildren SchaLisa (Rev. Terry) Tate, Allen Maxwell, Flonita Maxwell, Willie Maxwell, Michael (Tanisha) Mitchell, Flora Maxwell, and Derrick Maxwell for significant periods of their lives; this bond was particularly important, as these cousins were nurtured as siblings under Granny and PaPa’s wings, creating a foundation of unity that continues to leave an indelible mark on our lives today.

Granny’s love didn’t stop with people, it included cooking, shopping (how did she always know what she was getting for Christmas, lol?), gospel music, fishing, cussin’, and even a lil bit of gambling with Uncle Gene, Uncle Willis, Mother Malone and Ma Mitchell. And for a woman who never obtained a driver's license, Granny drove the heck out of a shopping cart…other Wal-Mart customers didn’t stand a chance going down those grocery isles!

Florida’s career choices were as diverse as her talents. From aspiring dietitian to real estate agent as a young adult, she ultimately shared her gifts at the University of Notre Dame for 26 years. In 2016, Florida’s contributions were recognized with a commendation of service from President Emeritus, Rev. Edward “Monk” Malloy. For her 90th birthday that same year, Florida also received birthday greetings from the office of then President Barack Obama. Turning 95 years young during the midst of Covid proved a treat for Granny, she was awarded an honorary pearl by the Epsilon Delta Chapter of Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Inc., then received an honorary day from Mayor James Mueller and the City of South Bend declaring June 21st, 2021 as “Florida Noreen Maxwell Day” Most importantly, Granny loved the Lord, and treasured His Vessels. We remember household names growing up including the likes of Billy Graham, Earnest Angsley, Jerry Fallwell, Bishop GE Patterson, and Jimmy Swaggart. As a “PK”, Florida was raised in the AME Church, where her spiritual journey began at an early age and was deeply rooted, foundationally shaping her into the beloved “Mother Maxwell,” known today for her boundless love and unwavering dedication to others. As a devoted member of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church for more than 40 years, Mother Maxwell demonstrated her faith as steadfast and unmovable, serving in the Pastor’s Aide and Mother’s Ministries until declining health prevented active participation.

"Granny" or “Ma”, as she was affectionately called, was our matriarch; her warmth turned 3617 into a hub of love and laughter for those both inside and outside those walls. With the absence of her physical presence, Granny has left the mantle of matriarch to her daughter, Rita (Vernon) Turner of Kent, WA. Awaiting Granny in Heaven are her beloved husband, Charles Edward Maxwell; her parents, Rev. Peter James and Willie Reid Williams; her children, Baby Gwendolyn, Charles Ronnie, Val Dez, Jacqueline, Bruce, and Baby Bobby; her grandchildren, Flora Maxwell, and Allen Winston; her great-grandson, Baby Blake Adam; and bonus daughter, Rosie Walker. Like each of us, Mother Maxwell may not have been perfect, but in every way that mattered, she was perfect for us; her love was perfect– a boundless wellspring that nourished all who came near. She modeled before us that what comes from the heart reaches the heart, and her legacy of faith, love, and kindness will forever inspire us. Rest well, Granny! You’ve earned your place among the angels.

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