Robert Bruce (Max) Maxwell of Edgartown died on Jan. 14, 2017, at the age of 62 after fighting a battle with cancer. Max was born in Portsmouth, Va., on August 16, 1954. Robert grew up in Berlin and Uxbridge. He was a graduate of Uxbridge High School, an Eagle Scout, and a member of Troop 22 of Uxbridge, and a graduate of the Kings College in New York in 1976 with a degree in music.
Music was important part of Max’s life. He played piano, trombone, tuba, and other wind instruments, and he sang. He performed with many bands, orchestras, and churches. He was a member of the Vineyard Classic Brass Band, the Vineyard Haven Band — which is the third oldest band in the country, established in 1868 — and an active member of the Faith Community Church and the music ministry there.
Max lived and worked on Martha’s Vineyard for more than 20 years, and had many friends. Max was a valued employee of Long & Meehan Custom Builders, and he was considered the “fix-it guy”; if it was broken, call Max!
He is survived by his mother, Ora Maxwell of Montgomery, Ala.; brothers Gary (Cheri) Maxwell of Montgomery, Ala., and James Maxwell of Ephrata, Pa.; his nieces Michelle (Luke) Smith and Tiffany (Ben) Croley, as well as seven great-nieces and many cousins. He is predeceased by his father, Bruce Maxwell.
Memorial services will be held in mid-June. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Henrietta Brewer House, Hope Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, or the Faith Community Church.
Special thanks and appreciation go to Cliff Meehan and the many doctors, nurses, and friends that were there to look after, care for, and visit Max during this difficult time. Arrangements are under the care of Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home, Oak Bluffs.
