Darlene Mae Maxwell, 86 of Kouts, IN, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. She was born May 20, 1939, in Valparaiso, IN, to the late Samuel and Geneva (Kauffman) Birky. Darlene graduated from Kouts High School in 1957, received her bachelor's degree in social work from Goshen College in 1963, and her master’s degree in special education from St. Mary’s College in 1968. She made her career as a special education teacher with the Portage School System, before dedicating her life to being a farmer’s wife. Darlene attended the First Christian Church, D.O.C. in Valparaiso and Cornerstone Community Church in Kouts. She was an avid supporter of Porter County 4-H, and the local food pantries. Darlene was always taking care of others, especially the hungry. Food scarcity was a concern Darlene held close to her heart, and she did everything she could to feed those in need. Darlene truly embodied the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in the way she cared for so many. She will be remembered as a faithful servant of the Lord, and a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandmother.
On December 17, 1966, at First Christian Church, D.O.C., Darlene married the love of her life, John R. Maxwell, who preceded her in death on June 19, 2008. She is survived by their son, Matthew (Leslie) Maxwell of Valparaiso; daughter-in-law, Heather Maxwell of Kouts; grandchildren: Abrams, Truman (Bailey), Geneva, Lauren, and Samuel; and several loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her son, Andrew Samuel Maxwell; and brother, Marion Birky.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at First Christian Church, D.O.C., 1507 E. Glendale Blvd., Valparaiso, with a celebration of life service beginning at 6:00 p.m., and dinner to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First Christian Church, D.O.C., or Cornerstone Community Church, 605 S. Maple St., Kouts, IN 46347.
GUESTBOOK
My sincerest sympathy to all of the Maxwell Family. It was an honor for us to be friends with Darlene. She was gracious, kind and supportive. Darlene loved her kids and grandchildren with all of her heart. -Debra and Rick Baron
A neighbor that will be missed. -Joe Jarnecke
Our deepest condolences to the Maxwell family. Knowing Darlene was a real pleasure and she will be greatly missed by all! -Jerry, Leisa, and Mark Blum
Our deepest sympathies with the family. It was a blessing to know Grandma Darlene. -Perry and LaDawn Heinold
