James "Michael" Maxey

Service for James "Michael" Maxey will be 2:00p.m., Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at Eastern Hills Baptist Church, burial will follow at Oowala Cemetery, under the direction of MMS-Payne Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Friends may visit at the funeral home on Tuesday, December 13, from 1pm--8pm, family will receive visitors from 6pm--8pm. Michael passed away on Friday, December 9, 2016 at Hillcrest South Hospital with his family by his side. He was 60.

Born July 8, 1956 in Claremore to James William Maxey, Jr. and Donna Joyce (Young) Maxey, Michael was reared and educated in his birth community. He attended Sequoyah Schools and was a starting player on their first football team in 1973. Michael was not only a strong athlete, he excelled at academics as well. He was on the debate team, and held the position of parliamentarian of the student council and voted "most likely to succeed." Following his graduation in 1974, Michael continued his education by attending Oklahoma State University and Claremore Junior College.

In 1975 he enlisted in the United States Air Force and worked in air traffic control and avionics. When Michael was honorably discharged from his military duties he began working at McDonnell Douglas. He later worked for Rockwell, which later became Boing before landing a position with Spirit Aerosystems. Michael has worked in the airlines industry for more than 35 years, starting out as structural mechanic and working up through the ranks as an inspector.

Michael met his future bride while she was attending her friends bachelorette party. He asked her to dance and the rest is history. Michael married Linda May Coursey on October 29, 1982 in a Miami, Oklahoma ceremony. The couple have made their home in Claremore through the years and together raised two children.

Family has always been first and foremost in Michael's life. An example of his love for his little sister was when he took her and a few friends to a David Cassidy Concert...now that's a loving brother. Linda never wanted for anything, Michael was always there helping in any way he could. He was also very proud of his children and their accomplishments and helped them when they needed him. Although his exterior might seem a little rough and he could be a bit stubborn, Michael was just a softy underneath that strong facade. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, playing golf and flying RC planes. An avid sports fan, he watched the OSU Cowboys, Dallas Cowboys and of course the Sequoyah Eagles. Michael also was a member of the Sequoyah Baptist Church.

Those family members that survive include his wife Linda of their home in Claremore; his daughter Heather M. Maxey also of Claremore and his son Heath M. Maxey of Tulsa; his mother Donna Joyce Maxey and his sister Lisa Kaye Forehand and husband John all of Claremore and many other extended family members and friends. Michael was preceded in death by his father, Jim Bill Maxey.

Those who wish to honor Michael's memory with a memorial contribution may consider contributing to the Sequoyah Alumni Scholarship Fund, 16441 S. 4180 Road, Claremore, Oklahoma 74017

Vi