Rellon E. Maxwell, Sr.

Rellon E. Maxwell, Sr., known affectionately as "Max," passed away three days prior to his 84th birthday on Saturday, November 8, 2025, in Gallatin, Tennessee. Born November 11, 1941, in Lancing, Michigan, he was the son of the late James Lindon Maxwell and Naomi Ruth Wood Maxwell.

Max was the proud owner and operator of Max Electric Motor Service, a business he started in Gallatin in 1964. His unwavering commitment to his work became a testament to his remarkable work ethic. Even at the age of 83, Max exemplified dedication, continuing to come into work every day.

A longtime member of College Heights Baptist Church, Max was known as a quiet and steady presence, embodying both strength and kindness. His demeanor softened in the role of "Papa" to his beloved granddaughter, Lindsey. It was in these moments that his gentle spirit truly shone—most notably when he custom built a blue go-kart with red flames for her, a memorable gift that highlighted his dedication to family and his knack for creating lasting memories.

Max had a passion for restoring old cars and furniture, finding joy and purpose in both the process of fixing them up and the fulfillment that came with reselling them. When it came to cars, the faster and more sleek they appeared the more he liked them. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and recently a great-grandfather, he cherished every opportunity to spend time with his loved ones.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Jewel Dean Phillips and Linda Ruth Guethlein.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 60 years, Carolyn Maxwell; his son, Rellon Maxwell, Jr., and his wife Carole Ann; his granddaughter, Lindsey Ellis and her husband Vince; and his great granddaughter, Kennedy Anne Ellis.

Visitation will be held from 3pm to 7pm Thursday, November 13, at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Gallatin. A funeral service officiated by Pastor Tim Colovos will take place at 11am Friday, November 14, at the funeral home with the family welcoming friends and visitors one hour prior to the funeral. Entombment will follow in Sumner Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Mike Davenport, Tommy Cox, Rob Ferguson, Vince Ellis, Thomas Lowery, and Nils Johansen.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to St. Jude’s's Children's Hospital.

Max’s legacy is one of Christian principles, family values, hard work, and the simple joys of life that he so deeply appreciated. He will be remembered fondly and missed dearly by all who knew him.