Maxine Robinson
1964 – 2024
Maxine Robinson, of Bloomfield, New Jersey, passed away on July 13th at the age of 60. We celebrate and honor her life as a resilient, strong, caring and remarkable young woman, who has left us way too soon. We will each embrace our personal memories of a dear mother, mother-in-law, wife, sister, aunt, cousin and a true and dear friend to many. Maxine Althea Robinson is survived by her husband Clark Clyburn, her son Jesse Gray, her stepson Xavier Clyburn, daughter-in-law Ali Brinjak-Gray, Mother-in-Law Clara Miller, Sister-in-laws Theresa and Leatha Miller, brothers Billshon Robinson, Sewell Chuck, Orane Robinson, and Mark Robinson.
Maxine was born in Kingston, Jamaica on February 4, 1964, and was the first born to her parents Beryl Brown (Barrett) and Gladstone Robinson (both deceased). Maxine was raised by her grandparents in Highgate, St. Mary. She attended Miss Mack’s Basic school, Port Maria Primary, and St. Mary’s High where she graduated in 1981, and later attended 6th form where she studied Business which prepared her for her first job at a local business.
One of the highlights of Maxine’s life, was giving birth in 1987 to her only child, a son, Jesse, who is a true testament to the marvelous job she did as a mother. We all know how this was exemplified in the last few months by the unwavering dedication he extended to his mom. Jesse, your mother was extremely proud of you. We all greatly admire you.
Also in 1987, Maxine migrated to the United States to live with her father, stepmom and brother in New York. She worked in the banking industry in New York and was later transferred to New Jersey where she raised Jesse. It was at the bank that she met her future husband, Clark. After the bank, she trained and became a Dental Hygienist at American Dental.
Both went their separate ways but were miraculously reunited when Maxine stumbled upon his number when cleaning out an old drawer. Maxine and Clark reunited after those many years apart and were then married March 6, 2020. Throughout their journey as a couple, they fondly spent their time traveling and exploring new cuisines together. Some notable trips they took together include multiple cruises to destinations like the Bahamas, Disney World, and Canada. They also loved traveling to historic Williamsburg, Virginia and Washington, D.C., as well as taking Clark to experience her hometown in Jamaica. Maxine always spoke with excitement about their future together and the adventures which still awaited them – that they so deserved to have together. Clark, thank you for being a supportive and kind husband to Maxine.
Maxine was neat and tidy. Everything was in its place. Laura and Dawn, both childhood friends, commented that even her purse was well organized. She had a green thumb and the flowers under her care blossomed beautifully, especially the roses. She was gentle yet she had no patience for nonsense. Maxine was fun loving and found joy in taking cruises.
Maxine was caring and kind. Even if it were a hand cream, she was always giving. She worked hard – always embracing opportunities to better her life. She cooked and baked extremely well. Have you tasted her steamed cakes? They were delicious. Maxine was a picky eater. As a child, she would find the seasonings, no matter how small they were and place them at the edge of her plate. There were many reprimands from her grandmother about wasting food, because she would always leave something on her plate.
Maxine had a signature smile, nevertheless she could be a bit feisty. She was small but as Jamaicans say she was ‘talawaw’ meaning she was strong and fearless, not to be underestimated. Today we honor and admire her perseverance and fearlessness in how she fought as early as her 30’s to overcome her health challenges. She was determined to be here for Jesse and she won that fight. In 2019, her strength was again tested, and she fought hard. The past 8 months took her on a journey that we all are still trying to understand. Sadly, she passed away peacefully on July 13, 2024.
We are privileged to have known her and she will always hold a special place in our hearts. Let us cherish the memories of the times we spent together. She will greatly be missed.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 9th from 10am – 1pm, with a service at 11:30 am, at Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel 1534 Pennington Rd, Ewing Township, NJ 08618.
For condolences please visit the obituaries page at OrlandsMemorialChapel.com