Sylvia Jean Maxwell

Sylvia Jean Maxwell, of Post Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026. She was born on April 9, 1942, in Santa Ana, California, and her life carried her through many places and chapters. Over the years, she made homes in Missouri, Nevada, and finally Idaho, where she spent her later years close to her son and daughter, surrounded by their constant love and support.

Sylvia is survived by her children, Sheryl and Michael, and Michael’s wife, Tracy. She is also lovingly remembered by her brother Lee and her sister Cindy, who shared lifelong bonds with her.

She was a proud grandmother to Bobby and his wife Robin, Chelsey, Casey, and Jacki. Her joy continued through her great grandchildren: Athena, Anthony, Noah, Eden, Mercedes, Courtney, Corinne, Ashley, Rosalia, and Olivia, each of whom brought light into her life.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, Blane and Dorothy Martin, her brother Doug, her daughter Glenda, her granddaughters Tiffany and Candy, and Sheryl’s husband Bob, whom she loved and occasionally butted heads with. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Sylvia dedicated many years to caring for others. She worked as a certified nurse assistant, offering compassion and support to elderly patients who depended on her gentle presence. Later, she brought her strong work ethic and warm personality to managing motels in various cities, always approaching her work with dedication and kindness.

She lived a life full of simple joys and spirited adventures. She loved bowling, road trips, and the excitement of slot machines in Las Vegas. Movies, family gatherings, and a good steak dinner were some of her favorite ways to spend time with the people she loved. She cherished visits with her grandkids and long conversations with friends. She had a fondness for spicy foods, a deep appreciation for cold breezes, and she absolutely thrived when everyone else was bundled up and freezing — the colder it was, the happier she seemed. She also had a well known love of sweets, especially Bobby’s homemade fudge, which never failed to brighten her day.

Sylvia’s family misses her terribly. She was a daily presence in their lives — someone they talked to every day, someone whose sharp wit, stories, and memories brought comfort and laughter. Her absence is felt deeply, and her love will be carried forward in the hearts of all who knew her.

A memorial or celebration of life will be held at a later date. In true Sylvia fashion, it will be a gathering filled with stories, great food, laughter, and the warmth of shared memories — a party in her honor, just the way she would have wanted.