Maxine Sue James Marvin

In Loving Memory of Maxine Sue James Marvin

Maxine passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, at Lutheran Senior Services in Saint Charles, Missouri, at the age of 87, with her family by her side. Maxine was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Daniel Ezra Marvin Jr., who died in 2008. See Daniel Marvin's Obituary.

Maxine lived a full life. She grew up near the seashore in Wildwood, New Jersey, where she was a high school majorette who enjoyed the boardwalk, the beach, and working in the James family hotel businesses alongside her two sisters and brother. The early days of working in the hotel coffee shops taught Maxine gracious service, hospitality, financial discipline, resilience, and the value of community. Throughout her life, she never lost her appreciation for a good cup of coffee and a well-made ice cream sundae.

She met her husband, "Danny," at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. Together, Maxine and Dan built a life and career centered around family, education, and service, living in Ohio; Radford and Richmond, Virginia; and finally settling in central Illinois in 1977.

Maxine was a loyal friend, loving mother, and most trusted advisor to her husband. She played a vital role in every professional chapter of his life, while offering grace and strength for her family. During Dan's tenure as the Director of the State Council of Higher Education in Virginia, Maxine strongly supported his initiatives to advance racial equality in higher education. She stood proudly by his side when he was appointed to President Gerald Ford's National Advisory Council on Education.

Maxine served as First Lady of Eastern Illinois University (EIU) in Charleston, Illinois, during a period of significant growth. Once again, following her passions, she participated in the establishment of the Tarble Arts Center, the founding of WEIU Radio and TV Stations, and EIU's 1978 NCAA National Football Championship title. She also hosted and entertained students, faculty, and supporters. As a goodwill ambassador for higher education, she traveled across China, Taiwan, Korea, and Poland with Dan to promote academic partnerships.

In their final chapter, Maxine and Dan contributed to the growth and vitality of central Illinois. With Maxine's unwavering support, Dan served over twenty-five years in leadership roles with First Mid-Illinois Bancshares in Mattoon, including board member, President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board. During this time, Maxine dedicated herself to strengthening the community through service. She volunteered or supported several charitable organizations, including Sarah Bush Lincoln Hospital, Lincoln Log Cabin Historic Site, the YMCA, public library, local food pantry, and Meals on Wheels. Together, they modeled integrity, commitment, and collaboration.

They raised three children - Brian J. Marvin, Laurie M. Latham, and Amy M. Koehler - who continued their parents' passion for education, service, and community engagement. Maxine often said she was proud that her children used their lives and careers to serve others and to enrich their communities.

Maxine was a gracious host, an avid bridge player, a book lover, a black licorice fan, a college sports enthusiast, an active church member, a bird watcher, and someone who treasured time spent with family. She will be remembered for her warm smile, quick wit, positive spirit, and graceful presence. In her final decade, she faced health challenges with remarkable strength, dignity, and courage. She will be laid to rest in Mattoon, Illinois, beside her husband.

Maxine is survived by her sisters, Diane Griesbach and Carmen James; her son, Brian (Marion) Marvin of Saint Augustine, Florida; and her daughters, Laurie (David) Latham of Paducah, Kentucky, and Amy (Stephen) Koehler of St. Charles, Missouri. She is also survived by her grandchildren - Melinda (Tommy) Marvin Gray of New London, Connecticut; Ashley (Bailey) Latham Boyle and Jeremy Latham of Lexington, Kentucky; Jacob Koehler, Emily Koehler, and Sydney Koehler of Jonesboro, Arkansas - and her two great-grandchildren, Lilly and Madeline Gray. She was predeceased by her parents, Ralph G. James and Faye Elizabeth Taylor James; her brother, Ralph G. James Jr.; and her husband, Daniel E. Marvin Jr.

A private Celebration of Life will be held in early 2026.

To honor Maxine, donations may be made to the Maxine Marvin Nursing Scholarship Fund at:

St. Charles Community College. Ways to Give:

www.stchas.edu/give

https://www.stchas.edu/workforce-community/give-to-scc/ways-to-give.php

St. Charles Community College, 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive

Cottleville, Missouri 63376