Maxine A Wayman

In Loving Memory of Maxine Alberta Wayman (May 22, 1940 – March 30, 2025)
On the peaceful afternoon of Sunday, March 30, 2025, God sent His angels to Indio, California, to bring home His beloved child, Maxine Alberta Wayman, at the blessed age of 84.
Maxine was born on May 22, 1940, in Smyrna, Delaware, the youngest of three children to the late Alfred and Myrtle Sudler. She was educated in Delaware, attending Thomas D. Clayton Elementary in Smyrna, Booker T. Washington, William Henry High School, and Delaware State College, all in Dover.
She found love and companionship in Charles V. Wayman Jr., with whom she married and raised five sons, affectionately known as "the stair-steps."
Maxine's passion and dedication were evident in everything she did. She was deeply devoted to her family, her faith, and her community. She was a proud member of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Smyrna, the Order of Eastern Star Hattie S. Blackwell #16, and found immense joy in cooking and serving others.
Her professional life reflected her drive and versatility. She held various positions-from cooking at the Wayside Inn and a local halfway house in Smyrna to serving in civil service roles at Dover Air Force Base. There, she worked in the Accounting Office, the Bakery, and the Library, earning numerous awards, certificates, and accolades for her dedication before retiring in 2002.
Though Maxine later relocated to California, her commitment to Bethel A.M.E. remained steadfast. She continued to support the church from afar, having previously served on the choir, the stewardess board, and the finance committee. Her decades of service earned her many honors and certificates of appreciation.
Maxine also dedicated 32 years to the Order of the Eastern Star, Hattie S. Blackwell Chapter #16, where she was awarded the prestigious title of Honorary Past Grand Worthy Matron in 2018.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents and her eldest son, Charles N. Wayman.
Maxine leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith. She will be forever cherished by her sons: Dino M. Wayman, Kevin T. Wayman (Gail Lynn) of Dover, Gary R. Wayman (Jemine) of Bridgeport, CT, and Eric G. Wayman (Mary) of Indio, CA; and a devoted daughter-in-law, Melvonia Wayman of Magnolia. She is also survived by her loving brothers, Adolphus L. Sudler (Martha) of Dover and Alfred V. Sudler (Jameszenna) of Winston-Salem, NC; 12 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Among those who held a special place in her heart were Miss Charleen Blue-Amor and Rosa Wilson, as well as her many cherished companions at the Indio Senior Center and her friends at Bethel A.M.E.
Maxine's spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.