Maxine Louise Samie

Maxine Louise Samie, age 94 of Akron passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2024. Born in Akron on September 20, 1929 to the late Mabel {Clark} and Henry Stephens, Maxine was a graduate of East High School.

Maxine Louis Samie was born at the start of the Great Depression. Her generation, known as the "Silent Generation," often meant children were seen and not heard. Coming into a world of fear and despondency, as it wrestled with its greatest economic downfall, Maxine was stubborn enough to defy the status quo. She became a woman who spoke her mind, remained resilient and poised, and loved all things fabulous. 

As a child, she was a leader in her home, often taking care of her sick mother and younger siblings. As a woman, she pursued vibrancy. During the age of Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn, Maxine effortlessly embodied the same sophistication and charm. She was known for filling a room with her elegant demeanor and striking confidence. Yet, as an avid reader, she was equally as intelligent as she was beautiful. Some of her favorite youthful memories came from the time she owned and ran the prestigious Surrey Restaurant in Hudson, Ohio, with her late husband, meeting Frank Sinatra, or posing behind the cameras and TV during her modeling career. Her sense of adventure took her around the world, skiing the French Alps and sipping martinis with her friends in Spain, Portugal, and Italy. Maxine was determined to live life with purpose and fun, and she certainly did.

Widowed at the young age of 38, she settled her life with her daughter, Cindi, in Akron, Ohio. There, she nurtured a beautiful legacy of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. If asked what the highlight of her vibrant life was, she would say her family. She was a matriarch to us, known for her voice of reason, impeccable style and taste, witty sense of humor, and unconditional love. Maxine had a presence that was felt and deeply adored by all who knew her. The void left behind is immeasurable. We love you a bushel and a peck.

Maxine is survived by her daughter Cindi (Dave) Hoover; grandchildren Michelle James, Ron Ziler, Shon (Chrissy), Shane (Jenn) and Shannon (Beth) Hoover; great-grandchildren Brandon (Alexis), Haley, Hunter (Madison), Leann and River James, Alexa, Abigail and Caitlin Ziler, Raygan, Rylee, Janet, Blake, Brooklyn, Brinley, Grayson, Carter, Addison and Ryder Hoover; great-great-grandchildren Alaina and Ava James, plus 3 bonus daughters Ellen Barnett, Debbie Janeda and Kathy Block. 

In addition to her parents, Maxine was preceded in death by sisters Ruby Farmer and Helen Russo, brothers Clyde and Lee Stephens, husbands Charles Samie and Dr. Howard Simon, and grandson-in-law Gary James. 

Maxine's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Brenda and Tracy from Crossroads Hospice for their compassionate care. 

Family and friends are welcome to visit at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd. Akron, OH 44305 on Wednesday, August 28th from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral service that begins at 1:00 p.m. Interment to follow the service at Hillside Memorial Park, where Maxine will be laid to rest with her parents. To leave a special message for Maxine's family, or to read the full obituary, please visit www.NewcomerAkron.com.