Larry Albert Maxwell, 85, of Rayville, passed away Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Oak Ridge Assisted Living in Richmond.
Larry was born on August 20, 1940, in St. Joseph, the son of Cleo Charles and Cathrine Francis (Vaughn) Maxwell. He was united in marriage to Judith Mariella Cavanaugh on June 7, 1964; she preceded him in death on January 10, 2026.
Survivor include: son, Wesley (Shannan) Maxwell of Ray County; two grandsons, Quinton and D’Tanyon Maxwell; sister, Betty Mae Trumble of Athol, MA; several nieces, nephews, and extended family also survive.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.
Larry was raised and educated in the area of his birth and graduated from Bolckow High School, now known as North Andrew High School. A proud Midwesterner, he carried with him a strong work ethic, a love of the land, and a deep sense of community throughout his life. Following graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Navy from 1961 to 1965, serving aboard the aircraft carriers USS Ticonderoga, USS Kitty Hawk, and USS Karl Vinson. His time in the Navy was a source of great pride and helped shape the disciplined, dependable man so many came to know.
After his service, Larry began a long and dedicated career with Trans World Airlines (TWA), where he worked his way from mechanic to lead mechanic and eventually supervisor, retiring after 39 years. Outside of his career, he found great joy in farm life, raising cattle and staying closely connected to his rural roots.
Larry’s life was deeply grounded in faith, and he was an active and devoted member of the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Richmond. He was also passionately committed to scouting, a calling that became one of the most meaningful parts of his life. Larry served at both the local district level and with the Heart of America Council and was an active member of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, where he was known as Keeper of the Wampum Big Bent Wing Hawk. As a dedicated Scoutmaster, he invested countless hours mentoring young men, guiding them with patience, integrity, and leadership, and taking great pride in helping many achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.
Above all, Larry was a devoted family man. He was actively involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren, rarely missing a game, concert, or school event. Whether in the stands or the audience, he was their biggest supporter, always present, always proud.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the Richmond Boy Scout Troop #324 or the Richmond United Christian Presbyterian Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Visitation, Mic-O-Say, and funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 9:30 A.M., with Mic-O-Say and funeral services to follow at 10:30 A.M. Burial will be held at 1:00 P.M., following services, in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville. Please remember to share your memories of Larry with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
