Terry E. Maxey, a beacon of wisdom and faith, completed his earthly journey on December 30, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and an unshakeable spirit. Born in the sunny state of Florida on August 2, 1960 to the late Clayton and Florence Stewart Maxey, Terry's life was a testament to the power of dedication and the strength of the human spirit.
Terry's early years in Florida laid the foundation for a life marked by hard work and perseverance. A proud graduate of Okeechobee High School, he went on to refine his skills at John Deere Trade School, leading him to a fulfilling career as a Head Mechanic with John Deere, where he dedicated more than two decades of exceptional service. He was the kind of man who could fix more than just engines; he had a knack for mending hearts and lifting spirits.
Even after his successful tenure with John Deere, Terry's adventurous spirit led him to drive a truck for a short time, exploring new horizons and spreading his infectious positivity on the open road. But it wasn't just Terry's professional life that was impactful. His deep-rooted faith and commitment to his community were evident to all who knew him. As a Deacon and Sunday School teacher at Corinth Baptist Church, Terry shared his wisdom generously, guiding others with gentle words and a firm, unwavering faith.
Terry's life was rich with love, shared with his devoted wife of 45 years, Diane Maxey, and his cherished family. His bonds with his sisters, Sherry (John) Hancock, Hattie (Johnny) Bennett, and Dorothy (Joe) Allen, along with his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Deborah Smith, John "Benny" (Jennifer) Pullen, Kenneth Arnold, and their respective spouses, were unbreakable. His nieces and nephews will carry forward the lessons and laughter from their beloved uncle. Terry's memory will be held in the hearts of those who preceded him in death, including his sister, Patsy Arnold, and brother-in-law, Robert Smith.
Those who knew Terry would describe him as a man who was as handy as he was faith-filled. His wisdom was a guiding light, and his ability to inspire others was unmatched. He lived by the words of Helen Keller, who once said, "Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence." Terry embodied this sentiment, approaching each day with hope in his heart and a confidence that was contagious.
Terry's life was a celebration of faith, family, and friendship, and this celebration will continue on Friday, January 5, 2024, at 11 am at Corinth Baptist Church. Reverend David Zorn will officiate a service that honors Terry's remarkable journey, and he will be laid to rest in the church cemetery, surrounded by the community he so dearly loved. The family will welcome friends from 10-11 am on Friday at the church, sharing stories and remembering a man whose life was a true inspiration to all. Pallbearers are JP Kelley, Curtis Jenkins, Stan West, Ray Meredith, Jessie Scott, JJ Scott, Dwight Simmons, James Bell, Brandon Smith, and Matthew Smith. Honorary pallbearers are Fred Helms, Marty Faulk, Gerald Aplin, Gerald Butler, Charles Hovey, and Dakota Pullen.
In honor of Terry's remarkable journey, let us remember that the essence of a well-lived life is not measured in the years but in the love shared, the wisdom imparted, and the joy spread to others. Terry E. Maxey was a man who not only lived but lived well, leaving a legacy that will continue to motivate and uplift for generations to come. His life reminds us all to approach each day with a handyman's resolve and a deacon's heart, forever striving to make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.