On March 21 Platinum Link Marcella Maxwell, a matriarch of wisdom and tireless advocacy, transitioned from this world, leaving behind a legacy of service that will forever echo through the hearts and minds of those she touched. The Greater New York Chapter of The Links, Incorporated bids farewell to our beloved member who was also a remarkable educator and community activist.

Born on November 6, 1927, Link Marcella lived a life dedicated to uplifting others and fostering positive change. As a Platinum Member of the Greater New York Chapter, she embarked on her Links journey in 1982, leaving an indelible mark on her community and beyond. Serving as Chapter President and later as an instrumental figure in various capacities, including her roles as National Links NGO to the United Nations, Chair of the Eastern Area Women’s Issues Committee, and Chair of the Greater New York Chapter’s Health And Human Services Facet for many years, Link Marcella’s leadership exemplified grace, determination, and an unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of others.

Link Marcella’s legacy of volunteerism and civic engagement extended far beyond The Links, Incorporated. A member of the NAACP, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, North Manhattan Alumnae Chapter, the New York Women’s Forum and a devoted member of the Abyssinian Baptist Church, she embodied the spirit of community, sisterhood and service. In 2023, the Greater New York Chapter of the Links, Incorporated honored Link Marcella with a gala which included establishing the Dr. Marcella Maxwell & Betty King Obiajulu Scholarship Fund, a scholarship awarded to high achieving high school women dedicated to community service.

An educator at heart, Link Marcella served for many years as the Founding Dean and Supervisor of Teaching Fellows for Medgar Evers College. Throughout her illustrious career, Link Marcella garnered numerous accolades and honours, including the Honorable Dorothy I. Height Lifetime Leadership Award and the Lucille Rose Living Legend Award, a testament to her unwavering dedication to uplifting and empowering her community.

Yet, Link Marcella’s greatest gift was her boundless kindness and thoughtfulness, expressed through handwritten cards and acts of generosity that endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. A master connector and networker, she is the nexus who brought many of us together, never hesitating to make an introduction or a phone call on Sister Link’s behalf.

As we bid farewell to Link Marcella, we are reminded of the profound impact one person can have on the world. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched and the enduring legacy of service, impact and excellence she leaves behind.