Maxine Steele-Goulbourne

In Loving Memory of Maxine Steele Goulbourne 

Maxine Steele Goulbourne was born on December 18, 1966, at the St. Ann's Bay Hospital in St. Ann, Jamaica, to her devoted parents, Franklin George Steele and Maudlyn Twyla Whilby-Steele. She was raised in the vibrant community of St. Ann, where she laid the foundations of her life and education, attending Buckfield Elementary, Papine Primary, and Vauxhall High School where she lived with her favorite aunt “Philma Henry”. It was at Vauxhall High that she met her high school sweetheart, Ian Anthony Smith, affectionately known as “Utan.” Together, they welcomed four wonderful children: Ian, Sanita, Peter, and Moses. 

After graduating high school, Maxine and Utan moved into the Halls Delight district of Kingston, referred to as "Rocky Point," where they raised their children with love, resilience, and invaluable life lessons. Through both challenges and joys, Maxine's faith blossomed, and she embraced the teachings of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, instilling in her children essential values: kindness, perseverance, and self-belief. 

Despite the trials that life presented, including her separation from Ian, Maxine exemplified strength as she returned to her hometown and started anew as a single mother. For 22 years, she dedicated herself to her role as a Certified Nursing Assistant at St. Ann's Bay Hospital, a position that reflected her nurturing spirit. 

In her life's journey, Maxine found love once again with Dian Steele-Goulbourne, a man who brought joy into her life and accepted her children as his own. Their meeting at "Mame Bay Beach" felt like love at first sight. Their bond grew, culminating in a heartfelt proposal on July 14, 2014, and their wedding on December 20, 2015, where Maxine celebrated her love with gratitude for her children and siblings “Monica, Nadine, Phillip aka pee, Winston, Beverly, Glenna and Kadine”, including tributes to her late brother, Junior Steele. 

Maxine always had dreams, and one of her wishes was to see America. Her son Ian fulfilled that dream, and on December 22, 2018, she then migrated to the United States. Overwhelmed by the experience of seeing snow for the first time, Maxine embraced her new life, exploring New York with wonder and joy before seeking employment. She earned her CNA license and began working with Unlimited Care Inc. 

Tragically, on December 6, 2019, Maxine received the devastating news of her cancer diagnosis. Despite her struggles with breast and colon cancer, which ultimately progressed to Stage 4 Metastatic Cancer, she continued to work tirelessly while finding solace in her faith and her church community. Her spirit remained unbroken as she sought treatment and support from family, friends, and her church. 

In late 2025, as Maxine faced her most challenging battles, she continued to radiate hope and love. Even in the face of adversity, she held high spirits and trusted in God. Surrounded by loved ones in her final days, Maxine left behind profound lessons about love, strength, and resilience. 

On January 15, 2026, at approximately 2:31 PM, God gently called Maxine home and the sun set for her life. Her life was a testament to joy, purpose, and fulfillment. She cherished her journey, the moments spent with her children, husband and grandchildren, and her deep commitment to her faith. Maxine’s legacy will forever reside in the hearts of those who knew her, a life well-lived, and a spirit that shall continue to inspire. 

Maxine Steele Goulbourne will be deeply missed but never forgotten. 

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