William Thomas Maxwell Jr.

Mr. William Thomas Maxwell Jr., the beloved son of the late Dorothy Maxwell Blackmon and William Thomas Maxwell Sr., was born in Charlotte, North Carolina. Affectionately known to many as Maxwell, Squirt, or Scrouge, William lived a vibrant, full life marked by faith, love, laughter, and authenticity. Raised in the close-knit Derita community, William was a proud product of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. He attended Torrence Lytle and graduated from North Mecklenburg High School in 1968. After graduation, he embarked on a fulfilling career journey that included roles as a billing specialist with Overnite Trucking Company, Jerry Silverman in New York, and Kemper Insurance. He retired from Ingersoll Rand in 2017 as a highly respected traffic coordinator. William lived boldly and unapologetically. His hearty laugh and big smile were his calling cards—his cheeks so full they’d often hide his eyes. He was a man who brought light into every space he entered. People often said, “He knew how to put a ‘!’ at the end of a sentence,” and that couldn’t be more true. Whether telling a joke, giving advice, or simply showing up, William did everything with purpose. He was genuine, direct and though private and meticulous in his ways, he had a heart as big as his smile and was always ready to help others, even if you didn’t ask for it. Faith played a central role in his life. William was a devoted member of Victory Christian Center Church, where he served faithfully as an usher and found deep joy in participating in the Men’s Fellowship. He loved the camaraderie and spiritual connection, and he brought the same warmth and strength there that he carried everywhere else. One of the greatest blessings in William’s life was his love story with his middle school sweetheart, Margaret who he affectionately called “Bay”. Together for 61 years and married for 56, their relationship was a shining example of enduring love, friendship, and faith. Their bond inspired everyone around them—it was the kind of love that felt like home. They were truly blessed to walk through life hand in hand. William had a passion for photography, always eager to capture a moment through his lens. His favorite color was blue, which matched the calm and strength he often carried in his presence. A true “bandwagoner” when it came to sports, he started off as a die-hard Miami Dolphins fan before later switching over to root for the Kansas City Chiefs—with full passion and no shame. He also had a love for his prized truck, fondly known as “The White Ghost,” and took great pride in keeping it in tip-top shape. Simple pleasures meant the most to him, especially a tall glass of ice water, which he enjoyed daily. When it came to food, William had soul food favorites that never failed to bring him joy: pinto beans, oxtails, collard greens, cornbread—and for dessert, slices of chocolate cake or sweet potato pie. As a husband, father, and grandfather, William was a steady and devoted protector. He was stern when needed, but always loving. His time, energy, and sacrifices were poured into making sure his family had everything they needed to thrive. He didn’t just provide—he nurtured, taught, and led by example. William was preceded in death by his two brothers, Eugene and Robert Maxwell. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Margaret Maxwell; sister Alice Mae Blackmon; son Tony D. Maxwell (Laveria); daughter Kimberly Covington (Ellis Lenard); eight grandchildren: Tatiana Gilmore, Antoneya Sloan, Artisha Chapman, Alexis Covington, Antonio Chapman, Darnell Maxwell, Kameka Lewis, and Autumn Lewis; five great-grandchildren: Saint Bradley, Alayah, Tylin, Jayden, and Taylor; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, and acquaintances. William Maxwell’s life was filled with joy, conviction, service, and unconditional love. He made people laugh, made people think, and most of all made people feel seen and valued. His legacy is one of strength, sincerity, and deep devotion. Though he has departed this earthly life, his spirit will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

William Thomas Maxwell Jr.

December 17, 1950 - June 16, 2025