Vivian Lee Maillard passed away peacefully in her home in Winter Garden, Florida, on Monday February 9, 2026. Vivian was born on October 29 ,1940 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  She was the second of two children born to Ruth Mae (Philpot) East and Alfonzo East.  

Vivian began her professional career as an entrepreneur as the owner and operator of V&V plastics.  She later worked at Lincoln Savings Bank in Brooklyn, New York and soon followed her true calling in education, becoming a paraprofessional with the New York City Board of Education, where she devoted herself to supporting children with disabilities and helping them grow with patience, compassion and encouragement. 

She married the late William “Bill” Maillard after relocating to Florida.  Vivian continued her service with Orange County Public Schools at Magnolia School.  During her time at Magnolia, she worked as both a paraprofessional and a job coach, guiding and mentoring students with special needs as they learned essential life and vocational skills.  While at Magnolia she assisted the nurses with caring for the physically disabled students, creating the “G tube cafe”.  She took great pride in helping her students, ensuring they were served with dignity and care.

Vivian was recognized by her coworkers and students as kind-hearted, patient, and nurturing.  She had a gentle spirit and a warm smile that made everyone feel welcome and safe.  Always stylish and beautified dressed, she carried herself with grace and dignity wherever she went.  To many of the children she served, she was more than an educator – she was a source of comfort, encouragement, and unwavering support.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother and husband.  Vivian leaves to cherish her loving memory: her three daughters, Donna (Anthony), Katrina (Jerome), Dawn; 6 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, nephews; Timothy (Shannon), Todd (Elaine), Troy (LaTasha), Tory (Geraldine), and her best friend Barbara. She also leaves a host of extended family members and friends whose hearts she touched.

Vivian’s love, kindness and beautiful spirit will live on in all who know her.  Though she is no longer with us physically, she will forever remain in our hearts and memories.