Edith Maxine Bartone

A Tribute to a Cherished Life

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Edith “Maxine” Bartone [Bowers], who left us on May 27th, 2025, at the age of ninety-seven.

Born on December 23rd, 1927, in Springfield, Ohio, Maxine brought joy and inspiration to everyone she encountered. Her life was a testament to hard work, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her beloved family and friends.

Maxine's tenure at Ohio Bell began when she was 17 years old and continued until her retirement in 1984. Starting as a clerk, her hard work, dedication to customer service led to her becoming the first female Business Office Leader within the Ohio Bell system which was a division of AT&T. Her leadership abilities left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her and paved the way for many more women advancing into leadership roles.

Beyond her professional life, Maxine was enthusiastic about many organizations she belonged to including Sigma Alpha Sorority, which is an organization made up of women brought together for friendship, personal growth, and social and philanthropic commitments. She rose from her chapter in Springfield, Ohio to the National President of the entire organization.

After the passing of her first husband, she married Fred A. Bartone and became an avid golfer at Jacaranda West Country Club in Venice, Florida. She devoted her time to social activities around the club and golf. Her enthusiasm and dedication were infectious, inspiring those around her to embrace life with the same zeal.

Maxine is survived by her son, Scott Bowers, her daughter-in-law, Roberta Bowers, and her grandchildren, Chris, Kathy (Vanessa), Kevin (Emily), Evan (Sara), and Drew (Maggie). Great-grandchildren, Harrison, Crosby, Harvey and Valerie, and nieces and nephews, who will forever hold her memories close. She was preceded in death by her first husband Ray E. Bowers; her second husband Fred A. Bartone; son David L. Bowers; brother Charles Ingledue; sisters Marilyn Ellinger and Mary Cyphers.

A celebration of Maxine’s life will be held on June 5th at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241, where family and friends will gather to honor their memories and the incredible legacy that she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Loveland Center, (lovelandcenter.org/donate) reflecting her support for their work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Maxine will be remembered for her warmth, caring, wit and wisdom and the joy she brought into the world. Although she is no longer present in physical form, her spirit will continue to serve as a guiding force in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.

May she rest in peace.