Maxine E. Boykin

Maxine Elenora (Thompson) Boykin, a trailblazer, devoted family matriarch, and pillar of the Joliet community, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 26. Born on September 12, 1935, in Sylvarena, Mississippi, to the late Ada (Wilborn) and William Thompson, she was four years old when her family settled in Joliet, where her life would become a testament to faith, perseverance, and service.

Maxine’s childhood shaped a woman of profound strength and dedication. As the eldest sibling, she quickly became the heartbeat of her family, helping her mother care for her brothers and sisters. She worked as a live-in nanny, sending money home to support them—an early sacrifice that led her siblings to call her their hero, crediting their successes to her love and support. She accepted Christ at age 18 at St. Mark C.M.E. Church and was a faithful servant of God throughout her life, worshipping most recently at Prayer Tower for the past 13 years.

Her devotion knew no bounds, especially for her only son, Mark LeBron Boykin Sr., whom she nurtured with boundless love, providing him with opportunities and guidance that shaped his life.

A pioneer in every sense, Maxine made history on February 2, 1963, when she became the first black female officer of the Joliet Police Department—an era with few women and no black women in such roles. She served with distinction for 39 years, later becoming the department’s first black female investigator. She navigated the storms of racism and sexism with steady courage, combining compassion with an exacting sense of duty. Her ability to connect with community members helped build trust and demonstrated inclusive public service in action. Maxine’s career broke barriers and opened doors for generations of women and black officers, leaving an enduring legacy of change within the institution she served so faithfully.

Beyond her professional life, Maxine was the heart of her family. Her kitchen was a hub of Sunday dinners, perfected recipes, and open-hearted hospitality. She loved thrift shopping, helping anyone in need, and sharing stories filled with humility and warmth. She taught honesty, integrity, and the centrality of family, often advising, “if you live long enough…” Her influence extended through her active role in faith and community events, where she mentored young women and was always ready to volunteer or pray for a neighbor.

Maxine leaves to celebrate her life her proud son, Mark LeBron Boykin Sr.; grandchildren, Mark LeBron Boykin Jr. and Madison Lynae Boykin. She is also survived by her siblings: Bonnie Smith, Leonard (Frances) Thompson, Billy “Boy” Thompson, Gregory Thompson, and Roger Thompson; a dedicated niece, Tammy Smith; a wonderful friend, Ben Billups; a favorite niece, Vicki Smith; a close friend, Verly Boykin; and her beloved dog, Simba2. She also leaves a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great- and great-great nieces and nephews, and countless friends who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter, Sierra Lynae Boykin, her sister, Helen (Elbert) Washington; brothers William, Louis, and Edison Thompson; and her cherished dogs, Mime, Pepper, and Simba.

Maxine’s life was a living legacy—of courage, cherished family rituals, and a moral example that refused to be limited by the times. Her most enduring gifts include the pathways she created in public service and the inspiration she provides to young black women considering law enforcement.

She will be missed beyond words but remembered forever in the lives she shaped and the doors she opened.

Along with flowers, those wishing to honor Maxine are encouraged to consider a donation to a community youth program or public-safety scholarship in Joliet, to volunteer time mentoring young people, or to simply gather with family over a meal and share stories of lives well lived. A Maxine Thompson Boykin Foundation will be established in her honor.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Maxine E. Boykin, please visit our floral store.