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Phillip Maxwell Obituary
Phillip Lee Roy Maxwell
Springfield - There are few men of real courage, Phil Maxwell proved himself one. His six-year courageous battle of cancer came to an end Friday, April 29, 2011, when he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones at Memorial Medical Center.
Phil was born Saturday, April 10, 1948 in Rushville, IL the son of Phillip Lacy and Betty June (Kinkead) Maxwell. He was preceded in death by a sister, Jennifer Maxwell in 1976 and his father in 1999.
He married Cindy Livingston on August 22, 1969. Together they have a daughter, Ashleigh Elizabeth Maxwell Watson (husband, Jeffrey) of Williamsville and six grandchildren, Jonathan, Adam, Matthew, Katie, Ellie Blaine, and Izabella. On March 26, 2008 he married Donna Curry Miller. She has three daughters Stacy McClanhan (husband, Carl), Jaime Houle (husband, Ryan), and Terri Miller (fiance, Nick Motley); and five grandchildren, Ashleigh, Matthew, Ryleigh, Gabrielle, and Caden.
He is also survived by his mother; six siblings, Bob (late wife, Jan) Maxwell, Sharon (husband, Jim) Stickel, Marilyn Kuykendall, Mick Maxwell (companion, Mary Kay Lentz), Tom (wife, Jannie) Maxwell, and Jimmy Maxwell; and several nieces and nephews.
Phil graduated from Springfield High School in 1967 where he was point guard on their 1967 3rd Place State Champion basketball team, he also played baseball and football.
After high school he went on to attend Springfield College where he earned his Associates of Arts on June 1, 1969. He was a point guard for their basketball team as well.
He earned his Bachelor's of Science in Special Education from Illinois State University on June 10, 1972.
Phil was a Special Education teacher, he worked at McFarland, Staley School, Jefferson but he spent the majority of his 30 plus years career at Springfield High School. He was an assistant football coach, started the girls softball program, and even during his battle with his cancer this year, worked some of the boys football and basketball games. He retired from Springfield Public Schools, District 186 in April 2005.
He was member of the Anchor Boat Club since 1986, and became an honorary member this year. He played on their softball team since his joining and remained an active part of the team, coaching and offering his sometimes unsolicted advise. He also played softball at Four Seasons on the Underfanger Moving & Storage and Springfield Tavern teams.
He was an avid sports fan, Cubs fan, enjoyed playing golf and fantasy football. Phil loved vacationing in Florida on the beach and walking in Washington Park. But most of all he loved spending time with his family, friends and his one eyed cat "Stinky the Kitty".
Cremation Rites have been accorded. A visitation will be held Wednesday, May 4, 2011 from 4 to 7 PM at Boardman-Smith Funeral Chapel. A celebration of his life will be held 3 PM Thursday, May 5th at the funeral chapel. Interment will follow at Joseph Brunk Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Memorial Home Services Hospice, 720 N. Bond St, Springfield, IL 62702. Sign the online guest book at www.boardman-smith.net
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Phillip Maxwell
c brown
February 24, 2018
this was my teacher at spfld high school he was a really cool guy,helped me through a lot not a teacher like him
Brittani C.
May 9, 2011
It was a true pleasure taking care of Phil during his hospital stay. He will be truly missed. May he rest in peace.
May 5, 2011
Phil will be sadly missed. I loved to listen to him add to conversations!! Also, Phil was a fellow Cubs fan, so I always had back up! lol Our thoughts and prayers are with you Donna...Rick, Shannon King and family
Rita and David Israel
May 5, 2011
Donna and the entire Maxwell family, Just want everyone to know you have been in our thoughts and prayers. The Springfield community has lost a really special guy who will be missed by many. Sincerely,
Dave and Linda Campbell
May 4, 2011
Donna and family, so sorry for your loss! Phil was such a good person, who will be missed by anyone who ever met him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Carol McCue
May 4, 2011
Donna and family, please accept my deepest sympathy at this difficult time. May God send His comforting Spirit upon you and upon all of Phil's family. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cathy Turner
May 4, 2011
Mick and family: So sorry for your loss. My heart and prayers are with you. Phil will be greatly missed.
May 3, 2011
Mrs. Pistrious was my favorite middle school teacher! She was my teacher at Grant in 1981-82. What I remember most was her caring spirit. She used to have our class keep journals. She cared so much and always told us so. You are in my prayers.
Agnes Nunn
May 3, 2011
Donna, I am so glad that I was able to come to the hospital to see Phil. The compassion and love you showed him when I was there will be forever in my thoughts. He will be missed by a lot of people but the kindness he showed for others, will never be forgotten. Revelation 21:3 & 4 tells us that "God will wipe all tears from their eyes and death will be no more...". How we all look forward to the time when that promise comes true.
Cora Benson
May 3, 2011
To Mick,
May God keep watch over you and your family and give you the strength to move forward. Today, you hurt. But with the thoughts and prayers of so many, and loving memories of Phil, tomorrow will be better.
Donnelly Bohan
May 3, 2011
Ashleigh - my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Kathy Harms
May 3, 2011
Donna and all of Phil's family, we are so sorry for your loss. Phil was a wonderful guy, always full of hope and laughter. You fought the good fight and Phil had several more years that he took full advatage of. What a strong man and wonderful support team. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. RIP Phil. Dave and Kathy Harms
Lynne Wright
May 3, 2011
Donna and Family,
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Karen Smith-Canning
May 3, 2011
Donna -
Please know that wherever you may go, and no matter where you are, Phil will never be far away.
Kim Smith
May 3, 2011
Donna,
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kim Davidsmeier-Elliott
May 3, 2011
Mr Maxwell, Phil, made softball an exciting and fun game. He taught fundamentals all while making us laugh. Even when, after a loss, he entered our bus and announced, " ladies, we stink!!"
Through the years after high school if I or my parents would cross Phil's path he made us feel like long lost friends. He always had an amazing smile. One I will never forget. Thank you Mr Maxwell for being a wonderful man!! You will be missed.
Beccie Cantrall-Rigor
May 3, 2011
God Bless you all and comfort you with wonderful memories of your loved one.
Phil & Marcia Moore
May 3, 2011
Donna & Family,
Phil and I send you our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May your precious memories of your life together give you comfort in the days ahead.
May 2, 2011
Donna, I am so sorry to hear about Phil. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs and Kisses-Dawn Holloway
Cheri Dalton
May 2, 2011
Donna and Family,
May God give you strength, and peace during this time of sorrow. My prayers and thoughts have been with you during this journey with Phil...will continue to pray for comfort for days ahead.
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Beth Myers Sharp
May 2, 2011
I am very sorry to hear about Mr. Maxwell. Thoughts and prayers to the entire family. Sweet dream Mr. Max.
May 2, 2011
May all the memories of Phil see you through this great loss. I smile every time I think of Phil. His sense of humor and wisdom will be missed by his family whom he loved dearly. His terms of endearment were the best. He was a wonderful brother-in law and an Uncle to my son, Greg.
So sorry for your loss.
Sue Swance
Stacy (Wolff) Zinnen
May 2, 2011
Mick and family-
I am so sorry to hear of Phil's passing. My heart goes out to you and my prayers that you find comfort in your memories of him and knowing he is free of pain and in God's hands.
Tom Schafer
May 2, 2011
Donna and Terri, Mick and Mary Kay and family, I am deeply saddened at the news of Phil's passing. Take comfort in the fact that Phil touched, and made a positive impact on so many young lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Debbie Wolff
May 2, 2011
Donna: I will keep you and all of the family in my thoughts and prayers to get you through this difficult time. Phil is at peace now and the struggle is over. May all the wonderful memories give you strength & carry you until you meet again!
Greg Dietel
May 2, 2011
To Mick and the Maxwell Family,
It saddens me greatly to learn of Phil's passing. I have lived my life surrounded by the Maxwell's in some way or another. My most recent was my working with Phil at Springfield High prior to my retirement in 2004. Phil was the most loving person who cared so dearly for his students. His compassion for others always ran high and he always put others before his own needs and desires. That exemplifies a true, genuine human being with a heart larger than life itself. I have missed Phil and our talks but will always keep him in my heart for reflection as a good man and true, loving friend. May thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. May the Lord share his grace and love with you all in helping you find stength to move forward. May your loving memories and family give you strength.
Mike and Amy Taylor
May 2, 2011
To Donna, Mick and Family,
We are very sorry for your loss and very saddened by the passing of Phil. Please know you are in our deepest thoughts and prayers.
Mike & Amy Taylor and family
Chuck Hermes
May 2, 2011
I was very sorry to hear of Phil passing, I to was born in 1948 and attended Harvard and Jefferson schools with Phil.and in the 70's he I and sometimes Bob would kick around Tops Big Boy and the strip.Phil was always a good friend to the people he knew. My condolence to the entire family.
Kelly Matthews-Scott
May 2, 2011
I am very sorry for your loss. It's a loss to me as well. "Max" was such a fun coach who always was a true competitor! Some of my most interesting moments were of him as my high school pitching coach. So many great memories!
Thom Walsh
May 2, 2011
Sorry. Peace be with all of you. Remember and be thankful for the good times.
May 2, 2011
To Donna and all of Phil's family - our thoughts and prayers are you with you. Mark, Sara, Marissa, Tony Bartolomucci.
Diane Long
May 2, 2011
Ashleigh and family,
I saw with sadness that your dad has had a rough number of years and now has passed. He always struck me as a very positive and caring person--the kind of person who will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Tom Maxwell
May 2, 2011
My deepest appreciation goes to Donna and Ashleigh for the care and compassion to Phil. Especially the past few weeks! Thanks to those who had a chance to visit with Phil and brighten his days. Phil was a great brother, son, father, husband and grandpa who lived life to its fullest. He will be missed for his quick wit, advice and conversation. Rest in Peace Phil you will be missed.
Gary & Pam Eicken
May 2, 2011
May beautiful memories give you strenght at this difficult time.
Lightfoot Family
May 2, 2011
A great guy who will be sorely missed everywhere from SHS basketball games to Fantasy Football drafts. out Condolences to all of Phil's family.
Helen J Pokora
May 2, 2011
Donna and family, I am so sorry to learn of Phil's loss. We used to have such a good time at Anchor, talking sports and just laughing at things in general. Phil was one of the toughest people I ever met, never saying "can't" without giving his all.
Jan Sponsler
May 2, 2011
Donna, You and Phil certainly fought a brave fight. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lester Edson
May 2, 2011
My empathy goes out to the whole Family. I played softball and was in a golf league with Lee Roy. We had some good times together !!! Pinky
Kim Smith
May 2, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this time. Phil will be missed by everyone that he ever met. I don't ever remember seeing him without a smile on his face. We could not have picked a better guy to name our son after. Our hearts are all so sad but we also feel blessed to have been a part of Phil's life. We will always love you Phil.
Gary, Kim and Phillip Smith
Wendi Agans-Dominguez
May 2, 2011
Donna and Family, May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Thinking of you in this time of sadness.
BECKY JONES
May 2, 2011
THANK YOU MR. MAXWELL FOR TEACHING ME TO PITCH MY FIRST YEAR OF SOFTBALL AT AGE 7....THE YEAR OF MY FIRST NO-HITTER!!! AND SEVERAL TO FOLLOW...YOU DESERVE THE ALMIGHTY PEACE, FOREVER!! BLESSING TO ALL THE FAMILY IN THIS TOUGH TIME
Kelly Goldberg
May 2, 2011
Phil was such a positive person. He would always tell me the things he liked about the SHS band. Phil truly cared about all of the kids and went above and beyond to make a difference in their lives. I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Bob Partridge
May 2, 2011
Marilyn, Mick, Donna and the entire Maxwell family please except our condolences, Phil truely was a good man and friend to all.
Bob Partridge & Anita Grant
May 2, 2011
I didn't know Mr. Maxwell on a personal level but do remember seeing him in the halls at SHS and he always had a smile on his face. God Bless your family at this time. I'm sorry to hear about your loss.
May 2, 2011
I remember playing many pick-up basketball games with Phil years ago at Harvard Park School when we were kids. I was also in a couple of classes with him at Springfiled College and enjoyed talking with him between classes. He was a very likeable person and I have thought about him from time to time over the years. My condolences go out to his family.
Kent Leahy
New York City
Elaine Kuhn
May 2, 2011
Mick: My heart goes out to you and your family in this difficult time. May you find comfort in your memories of Phil.
Barbara Guzzie
May 2, 2011
to all of you so verry sorry for his loss
my grandma lillian was at the house when we were kids
Jill Fletcher(Darr)
May 2, 2011
"Max" was my softball coach at Springfield High School from 1981-1985.
I will always remember his great sense of humor, his fun coaching style, and his competitive spirit.
Thanks for all the great memories Max and my thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Maxwell family.
yvonne killion
May 2, 2011
To the entire Maxwell family, I am so very sorry for your loss of your loved brother Phil.
Hal Simpson
May 2, 2011
Ashleigh, Jeff, and extended family, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you at this time. May God's peace comfort and surround you.
Marcia Harmon
May 2, 2011
Ashleigh and Family,
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you. My heart breaks for your loss. Please know that myself and my family are here for you if you need anything. My the love of God be with you at this time and may His arms of comfort encircle you and give you the strength you need.
Sally Miller
May 2, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with your family, Donna.
May 2, 2011
To the entire Maxwell family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers......
Marcia Kay Knox
Gabrielle Fisher (Kilby)
May 2, 2011
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Phil. He was a great co-worker, always positive despite battling through his cancers. So sorry he was taken way to soon. May your memories be of a comfort at this difficult time.
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