Maxine Colling

Maxine was born on May 29, 1930, in Verona, Missouri. Her family later moved to Detroit before settling in Bay City, Michigan, where Maxine and Elliott raised their five children. In her later years, she became a beloved resident of The Villages, Florida, where she passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, at the age of 95.

Maxine lived a life marked by devotion, creativity, and service to others. A dedicated Registered Nurse, she carried her compassion beyond her profession—helping to build a nursing home and, alongside her husband, J. Elliott Colling, purchasing and managing several businesses and properties. Their shared work reflected a deep commitment to community, diligence, and care for those around them.

A woman of many talents and interests, Maxine delighted in painting China, knitting, arts and crafts, square dancing, candy making, and painting ceramics. She cherished time spent playing board games, bridge, and mahjong, always enjoying the laughter and connection these moments brought. Her faith was central to her life; she loved attending her Baptist church and singing joyfully in the choir.

Maxine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, J. Elliott Colling, and her five children: sons Jaime, Wesley, and Reed Colling; and daughters Paige Colling (Stuit) and Jill Colling. Despite these profound losses, Maxine’s strength, grace, and love for family endured.

She is survived by her cherished grandchildren: grandsons Ryan and Ty Stuit, Alex and Jesse Colling; granddaughter Faith (Dustin) Hansen (Colling); and her daughter-in-law, Mary Colling. She had many beloved nieces and nephews including Donna Sommerville (Bill) who cared for Maxine's daily life events. Shawna Mader, a neighbor who loved and cared for her faithfully for several years. Her legacy lives on through them and through the many lives she touched with kindness, creativity, and unwavering faith.

A Celebration of life for Maxine will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 12:00–4:00 p.m, Dignity Memorial Life Celebration Center, 7134 Powell Rd, Wildwood, FL 34785.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to their hearts. Information for donations, RSVP, and the Zoom link for the service can be found here:

St. Jude Donations: http://www.stjude.org

RSVP & Zoom Link: https://maxinescelebration.rsvpify.com/

Maxine P. Colling will be remembered for her generous spirit, artistic soul, steadfast faith, and the love she so freely gave. Her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her.