Maxine M. Pulley

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Maxine Pulley on April 8, 2026, at the age of 93, surrounded by the warmth and comfort of her home.

Born on October 12, 1932, in Lawrenceville, Virginia, she was a beacon of love and kindness, whose light continues to guide the lives of those she touched.

The cherished daughter of Eddie and Ola Sue McElroy, she was preceded in death by her loving parents, her sister Judy McElroy, her brothers Eddie McElroy and Jerry McElroy, her devoted husband Clarence Pulley, and her precious granddaughter Kayley Grace Pulley. Together with Clarence, whom she married on December 23, 1954, in Meredithville, Virginia, they built a life of love and devotion, celebrating 57 wonderful years and raising three adoring children.

She is survived by her children, Barry Pulley, Rusty Pulley and his wife Kim, and Debra Wanzong and her husband James. Her legacy continues through her dear siblings, Sue Hasty, Beverly McElroy, and Sandra Hudson. She will be profoundly missed by her grandchildren, Amber Simmons and her husband Bronson, Jordan Pulley and his wife Rachael, Kamryn Goldston and her husband Gregory, Joe Pulley, Elizabeth Wanzong, and Christopher Wanzong, as well as her great-grandchildren, Wren Simmons, Magnolia Simmons, Elliana Pulley, and Elijah Pulley. A host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends also mourn her passing.

Her journey through life was marked by a deep commitment to education. A proud graduate of Longwood College in 1954, she dedicated 42 years to shaping young minds, primarily as a third-grade teacher at Pembroke Elementary in Virginia Beach Public Schools. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, nurturing a lifelong love of learning in countless students.

An active member of the First Baptist Church of Norfolk, she was a woman of unwavering faith and kindness. Even as her ability to attend church physically diminished, her spirit remained strong, attending Sunday School with her son Barry via telephone. Her life was a testament to God's love, and she joyfully shared that love with all who crossed her path. Many recall her as a second mother, whose home was always open, and whose heart was always warm.

In her later years, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life, cherishing every moment spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. An avid scrapbooker, she preserved the memories of family and friends, leaving a tangible legacy of love and connection.

As we gather to honor and remember her remarkable life, we find comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with those she loved and lost, and that her spirit will forever dwell in the hearts of those she cherished.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Woodlawn Funeral Home, located at 6329 E. Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23502.

The family looks forward to welcoming all who wish to offer their condolences.

A celebration of her life will be held on April 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, located at 6309 E. Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23502.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, a cause close to her heart, by visiting this link.