Bernice McIlvain

Bernice Maxine McIlvain, affectionately known as Maxine, of Alliance, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, at the age of 82. She was born on December 22, 1943, to Lee and Sylvia Croley, both of whom preceded her in death.

Maxine was the beloved wife of Robert McIlvain Sr. and a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She was a devout Christian who loved the Lord and held her faith close throughout her life.

Above all else, Maxine loved her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren meant more to her than anything in the world. She took immense pride in each of them and found tremendous joy in watching them grow and sharing in their lives. Her family was her greatest source of happiness, and there was never any question about how deeply she loved them.

She is survived by her husband, Robert McIlvain Sr.; her sons, Robert McIlvain Jr. and Daniel (Theresa) McIlvain; and was preceded in death by her son, Jeff McIlvain, whom she loved dearly and greatly missed.

Maxine was a proud grandmother to Trent McIlvain, Scott (Brianna) McIlvain, Mark (Brittnee) McIlvain, Niki McIlvain, Kady McIlvain, Daniel Kocher, Chelsey (Shane) LaPrell, and Matt McIlvain.

She was a loving great-grandmother to Austin McIlvain, Harper McIlvain, Paige McIlvain, Brock McIlvain, Deuce Kocher, Olivia Kocher, Madelyn McIlvain, and Malloree McIlvain.

She is survived by her sisters, Dianna (Greg) Greenamyer and Melissa (Gary) Simone. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Sylvia Croley, and her siblings, Larry Croley, Dwight Croley, and Karen Minnich.

Maxine deeply missed those who had gone before her, especially her mother, her siblings, and her son, Jeff. Her faith gave her comfort in knowing that those she loved were never truly lost, and she looked forward to the day she would be reunited with them.

Maxine loved conversation and could spend endless hours on the phone with friends and family, talking, laughing, catching up, and simply enjoying the people she loved.

Maxine’s life was defined by faith, family, love, and connection. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren will carry with them the love she gave so freely, and her family will forever remember the conversations, laughter, and unwavering love she shared.

Although Maxine will be profoundly missed, her family can find comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, reunited with the loved ones she missed so dearly, and resting in the presence of the Lord she faithfully loved.

Her family was her greatest pride. Her faith was her greatest comfort. And her love will remain with her family for generations to come.

She will be forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

A visitation will be held at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home on September 12th from 2:00-4:00 p.m.