Jonathan Irving Maxson

Jonathan Irving Maxson, a kind man with a quiet wit, died Tuesday, March 10, of Parkinson's disease at Apple Rehab, Watch Hill. Born in Westerly, R.I., February 1, 1927, the son of J. Irving and Kathryn Comstock Maxson.
Irv, as he was known by his classmates and old friends, attended Stonington schools and graduated from Stonington High in 1944. He was enrolled in the Army Specialized Training Program until the war in Europe ended, at which time, he was sent to Germany in the Army of Occupation. Maxson attended Yale University, graduating in 1949. He obtained work in Stamford, Conn. and in Sept. 1949, married his high school classmate, Jane Hoxie. In 1959, the couple and their three children moved to Ridgefield, Conn. where he was employed as comptroller by Marcus Dairy. They retired to their summer home in Green Hill, R.I. in 1991.
Jon enjoyed stamp collecting, specializing in island countries, and playing cribbage, which he taught his children and grandchildren. He led his family on memorable trips to Civil War battlefields and on cross-country trips to Yellowstone Park and Grand Canyon. In later years, he and Jane traveled to countries throughout the world, visiting many of the islands whose stamps he collected.
Jon is survived by his loving wife, Jane (Hoxie) Maxson, his brother, Henry C. Maxson and his children, Jonathan III (Sarah Rice), Judith Sharnik (John), and David (Diane Larose); four grandchildren, Rachel Maxson (Jesse Purkerson), and Clifford Maxson of Ore., Hilary Settle (David) of N.Y., and Scott Maxson of Mass.; one great grandchild, Clara Purkerson of Ore..
The family thanks the staff at Watch Hill for the considerate care they gave Mr. Maxson over the four years he was a resident. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Apple Rehab Watch Hill Employee Education Fund.
A memorial service will be held Friday, March 13 at Buckler Johnston Funeral home in Westerly; calling hour from 1 to 2 p.m., with service following.