Margaret Sena Maxwell

1947 - 2026

Margaret Sena Maxwell
Born: March 27, 1947
Died: March 16, 2026
Margaret Sena Maxwell, age 78, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend to many passed away on March 16, 2026, in Duluth, Minnesota.
Margaret was born on March 27, 1947, in Olney, Illinois to Clifton and Robilee Maxwell. She spent her early years in Hanover, Illinois before moving with her family to Princeton, Illinois; where she attended Princeton High School and graduated in 1965. During her youth she developed a love for learning and music. Family trips to Minnesota during her childhood introduced her to the northwoods and sparked a deep and lasting appreciation of the outdoors.
After high school she attended the University of Illinois and graduated with a BS degree in music education. While at the University of Illinois, she married John Morrison also of Princeton. They welcomed two sons, John and Hugh Morrison. In 1977, Margaret and her family moved to Bemidji, Minnesota, a place that would become home for many years. She went on to earn a Master's degree in music from Bemidji State University and became an adjunct faculty member in 1980 teaching piano, harpsichord, and organ classes. She also maintained a large independent piano studio and taught generations of students for over three decades. She influenced many student's lives through her teaching, helping them grow in confidence and gain an appreciation for music. Besides teaching, Margaret founded and directed the Bemidji State University Summer Piano Camp and gave many piano and harpsichord performances, including as a member of the Bemidji Barque Ensemble. She was active in the Minnesota Music Teachers Association, including as the founder and president of the local association, and the North Country Keyboard Teachers Association.
The outdoors were an important part of Margaret's life and she especially cherished the natural beauty of the northern Minnesota and canoe country. She enjoyed hiking, Nordic skiing, canoeing, and was an avid fisherwoman. She found great joy in spending time outside in every season.
Margaret's warmth, curiosity, and generous spirit brought people together and created connections that endured for decades. She will be remembered for her kindness, love of family, and gift for music. She will be missed by many.
She is survived by her sons, John (Carrie) Morrison and Hugh (Mila) Morrison; her brother, Mark (Ruth) Maxwell; her beloved grandchildren, Caroline, John-Henry, and Victoria; and her long-term partner Dave Benson. A heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Benedictine Living Community-Duluth and St. Luke's Hospice for their kind and compassionate care.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Bemidji Town and Country Club, 2425 Birchmont Beach Rd NE, Bemidji, MN, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.