William G. “Bill” Maxwell, aged 69, of Norfolk, Virginia, became a new angel in heaven on January 18, 2022. He was predeceased by his father, Henry Lawrence Maxwell, Sr.; his mother Mary Goodrich Maxwell; his nephew, Brooks Fisher; and his special brother-in-law, Herbie Ritter. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Betty Gosney Maxwell; his sons, Bill Jr., (Leslie) and Jason; step-grandsons Brayden and Ethan and grandsons, Skyler and Jadyn; his brother Larry Maxwell (Kathy) and sisters, Carol Maxwell and Mary Maxwell Fisher (Norman), and many relatives and friends.
Bill was a life-long servant to others. He spent 36 years as a government civil servant at Norfolk Naval Aviation Depot and Defense Logistics Agency. As a supervisor, he often expressed his belief that as you take care of your people, they will take care of the mission. He exemplified unwavering support to family, friends and would help anyone in need he ever came across. He was the wind beneath others’ wings, lifting people to unimaginable heights. He guided, taught, and assisted people every day. He was an expert builder and a master mechanic, passionate about understanding the inner workings of anything and tenacious about troubleshooting any problem to completion, especially when helping someone else. “Call Billy” was the first response to fix a problem of so many, for so long, that the phrase will remain a testament to his legacy of care.
Bill laughed. He worked hard and played hard. He built a paradise of a home with Betty to which family and friends came to celebrate life and friendship. He loved boating, motorcycle riding, building and repairing anything, and exploring unknown adventures. To his final days he explored and inspired others to follow. He traveled on cross country explorations to see America’s wonders. Two of his favorite sights were the open road and the open water. He loved life and countless people experienced and loved his larger-than-life personality.
Bill exemplified a life well lived in service, adventure, and love and that spirit will remain with his friends and family forever. We miss him. We love him.
A Celebration of Life will be held when it is safe to gather. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Bill Maxwell’s name to the following charities: Autism Speaks at https://www.autismspeaks.org or Alzheimer’s Association at https://act.alz.org/.
His last message to everyone was “Smile, be happy, and do everything twice!”