Maxine Juanita Uddin

Maxine Juanita Uddin, a woman of profound strength, quiet grace, and unwavering determination, passed away on Sunday April 12, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of healing and familial devotion.

Born in the Bronx on December 27, 1951, Maxine was the fifth of ten children born to the late Jack Lewis and Eleanor Edmunds- Lewis. Growing up in a bustling, close-knit household, Maxine learned early on the value of looking out for one’s own—a trait that would define her entire life.

Maxine’s journey as a healer began in her youth. A gifted student and a standout athlete at P.S. 32 and Clara Barton High School, she earned medals in track and field and displayed a rare focus for a teenager. She graduated high school with two diplomas: one for her general studies and a second as a Licensed Practical Nurse. By the time she was eighteen, Maxine knew her calling was to help people heal. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Long Island University, later followed by a medical degree from a four-year program in Tampico, Mexico.

Maxine’s work ethic was legendary. For over thirty years, she worked two full-time jobs simultaneously, embodying the belief that success is something "earned the old-fashioned way." Whether as a Registered Nurse or a Visiting Nurse, she provided tirelessly for her family until her retirement from the City of New York in 2021.

Beyond her professional achievements, Maxine was the bedrock of her family. She was a soft-spoken woman with a generous heart and when her elder family members needed support, she showed her devotion by personally caring for her father, Jack; her Uncle Tippit; and her Aunt Florence. Maxine devotion continues even now through her mother, Eleanor, who is 103 years old.

In her quiet moments, Maxine found immense joy in the simple beauties of life. She loved the "oldies," particularly the soulful voices of Sam Cooke, Ella Fitzgerald, and Stevie Wonder. She spent many years raising Zebra finches, finding peace in their birdsong and beauty in the colors of their feathers. Maxine had a sophisticated palate for the simple things; she preferred a perfectly broiled lamb chop and a scoop of Häagen-Dazs chocolate ice cream.

Maxine leaves behind two children to cherish her memory; Bamidele Adedoyin and Rashid Uddin; and her granddaughter, Olusade Prodis. She is also survived by her mother, Eleanor; her siblings, Jackie, Barbara, Cynthia, Gary, Allen, and Jeffery; along with a vast host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

We find comfort in knowing that after a lifetime of hard work and caring for others, Maxine is finally at rest. We are grateful for all that she gave us and taught us.

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