Maxine Louise Johnson Day

Maxine Louise Day, 81, passed away peacefully, with her loved ones on August 1, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Born July 22, 1944, in Corona, California, to Max and Kathryn Johnson, Maxine was the eldest of four children and grew up surrounded by love, family, and the open spaces of Idaho Falls, Idaho. She treasured her childhood in the New Sweden farming community and the many joyful gatherings with her Jackson grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins at the New Sweden Irrigation District Ranch, where she often took on the role of caring for the younger ones.

In 1962, Maxine moved with her family to Greensburg, Pennsylvania, graduating from Hempfield High School that same year. She pursued her passion for creativity at the Pittsburgh Art Institute, studying Fashion Design, and later earned her Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. She used her skills as a counselor to help many people throughout her life.

Over the years, she lived in many places, each one shaping her unique and adventurous spirit. During the 1980s, she resided in Santa Cruz, California, where she owned and managed a mobile home park. She delighted in peaceful walks along the ocean shore and quiet moments under the majestic redwoods.

Maxine had an insatiable curiosity and a gift for research. She was deeply knowledgeable about healthy living, archaeology, and mysteries like Oak Island, which she could discuss in detail for hours.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and in 2013 she joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she met her cherished friend Samaria Burton, who remained steadfastly by her side through every challenge including lovingly holding her hand as she passed from this life. Also by her side were her two granddaughters McKenna and Riley as well as the thoughts and prayers of her family and friends.

Her family remembers Maxine for her strength, intellect, and generosity. She selflessly cared for her bedridden mother for ten years, a testament to her unwavering love and devotion.

Maxine is survived by her sons, Eric Smith of Greensburg, PA, and Eron Smith of Las Vegas, NV; her beloved grandchildren, Aidan, Riley, McKenna, and Leila Smith. Also, her siblings Peggy Newmeyer of Yuma, AZ, Barbara Jackson of Bellingham, WA, and Norman Lee Johnson of Santa Fe, NM. She will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

A private memorial service will be held by the family at a later date.