Maxine Lord Turner passed away January 28, 2026, in Newark. She was 82.
Maxine was as woman of faith and that shaped every facet of her life. She now rests in the loving presence of her Lord and Savior. She lived with kindness, purpose and a deep commitment to loving and serving others. Her life reflects the words of Scripture.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” 2 Timothy 4:7.
A lifelong Delawarean, Maxine graduated from Milford Senior High School in 1961. Her warmth creativity and deep compassion for others defined her life. After graduation went on to attend cosmetology school in Wilmington. After working at a salon in Milford as a hairstylist, she fulfilled a dream of opening and operating her own salon which she ran successfully for ten years.
In 1974, Maxine began a new chapter, accepting a position as Activity Director at Milford Manor Nursing Home, continuing her devotion to care for others. Her work with the elderly became a calling, not just a career. In 1989, she left Milford Manor to join the State of Delaware Division of Aging, continuing to advocate for and support the elderly population until her retirement in 1998.
After retirement, Maxine and her husband, Parker, moved to Lewes, Delaware, where they enjoyed the beach life, something Maxine had always loved. True to her lifelong passion for seniors, she returned to work part-time at Harbor Healthcare in Lewes, continuing to support and advocate for the elderly well into her retirement years.
Maxine was a lifelong member of Avenue United Methodist Church in Milford and later joined Long Neck United Methodist Church in Lewes. Her faith and sense of community remained central throughout her life. In her quieter moments, she found joy in crafting and gardening, pursuits that reflected her creativity and nurturing spirit.
Maxine is survived by her sons, David Turner and his wife, Lisa, of Allen, Texas; Caly Turner and his wife, Diane, of Newark, Delaware. She was a devoted grandmother to David’s sons, Luke Turner and his wife, Caroline, of New York, New York; and Ben Turner and his wife Natalie, of Bentonville, Arkansas. She was also a devoted grandmother to Clay’s daughters, Madi Turner of Hilton Head, South Carolina and Emily Turner of Newark, Delaware. She is also survived by her brother, Brian Lord, of Greenwood, Delaware.
Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, Clayton and Pauline Lord of Milford; her brother, Eugene Lord; and her beloved husband of 59 years, Parker Turner.
Maxine will be remembered for her kindness, dedication to others, love of family and unwavering advocacy for the elderly. She left behind an enduring legacy that touched many lives.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Rogers-Hovatter Funeral Home of Milford. Interment will take place at Milford Community Cemetery (Odd Fellows Cemetery) in Milford, Delaware at a future date.
Donations in Maxine’s memory may be made to Meals on Wheels or the Alzheimer’s Association.
