Richard Maxwell

Richard Maxwell, 87, of Vienna , passed away Monday morning, October 7, 2024, at his home after a brief illness.

He was born April 2, 1937, in Weirton, WV to the late Paul and Catherine Maxwell of Blandville, WV. Richard graduated from Doddridge County High School in 1955 where he was a standout football player. He continued his education and football career at Salem College on a full-ride football scholarship and graduated in 1959.

He enlisted in the United States Marines and served his country for 3 years, from 1960-1963. During his enlistment, he played football for the Corp while in Okinawa, Japan and played alongside his buddy and famous actor friend, Brian Dennehy.

Richard later came to Wood County to start his long teaching career of 36 years for Wood County Schools. In the meantime, he worked on his Master’s Degree from WVU and graduated in 1966. He taught at PHS for 10 years and moved on to Jackson Junior High, where he taught Mechanical Drawing and shop class, and coached football.

He impacted many student lives with positivity and support. To this day, many students continuously speak of the humorous memories and what a big impact he was on their lives and talk of their shop projects that still hang in their homes today.

After retirement, he joined and became active in the MOV Marine Corps Veteran Association of Ohio and WV and the Marine Corp League – Sgt. Bob O’Mailey Detachment 1436. He was honored with Marine of the Year. Richard was also an active member of Vienna Masonic Lodge 172. He was a devoted member of Vienna Baptist Church for more than 50 years. He served as an usher, Board of Trustees, VBC Tool Club, and helped with many projects for the crafter’s club.

In addition to his parents, Paul and Catherine, he was preceded in death by an infant brother; brother-in-law and best friend, David Shields; and brother-in-law, Doit Koppler.

Richard leaves behind his loving wife of 60 years, Linda Maxwell; two daughters, Paula DeLong (Chris) of Washington, WV and Melissa Hankins (Brian) of Huntington, WV; one son, Richard Maxwell II of Morgantown, WV; 6 grandchildren, Dakota DeLong, Hunter DeLong (Ashton), Madison Howell (Jake), Maxwell Howell (Heather), Joshua Maxwell, and Ethan Maxwell; sister, Donna Koppler; and brother-in-law, Donnie Shields (Susen).

A memorial service for Richard will take place at 1:00PM on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at Vienna Baptist Church with Pastor Bill Brown officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:00AM until time of service.

Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Maxwell family.