The Richmond News, Apr. 3, 2026

Larry Albert Maxwell, 85, of Rayville passed away Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Oak Ridge Assisted Living in Richmond.

Larry was born Aug. 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 Jan. 10, 2026.

Survivors include his son, Wesley (Shannan) Maxwell of Ray County; two grandsons, Quinton and D’Tanyon Maxwell; and sister, Betty Mae Trumble of Athol, Mass. Several nieces, nephews and extended family members also survive.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents.

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 U.S. 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, 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. He was an active and devoted member of the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Richmond.

He also was 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, 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 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation, Mic-O-Say and funeral services were scheduled for Thursday, April 2, at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Richmond, with visitation to begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Mic-O-Say and funeral services at 10:30. Burial was to be held at 1 p.m. following the services in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville.

Please share your memories of Larry with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.