Cory's obituary
Obituary for Master Sergeant Cory Maxson
With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Master Sergeant Cory Maxson on March 13, 1991. Cory was a decorated Marine, loving husband, devoted father, and cherished friend. Born on August 17, 1938, Cory was a loving and dedicated family man, a pillar in the community of Pittsburgh, and later Montgomery, AL. Cory died at the age of 53 in Baptist Medical Center South Hospital in Montgomery, Alabama after suffering from complications with his liver disease. He is survived by his loving wife, Janet Maxson, daughter, Donna Maxson, half-brother, Lyons Maxson, and half-sister, Raynell Maxson, and mother, Rose Maxson. He is now with his late father, Troy Maxson.
He grew up in a working-class African-American family. Cory was a talented high school football player. He had dreams to continue his education and pursue his dream of sports in college. He was dedicated to becoming successful. He juggled school, football, and a part-time job at an A&P Supermarket. He was able to maintain good grades which gave him the opportunity to be looked at by college recruiters that made the effort to fly down from North Carolina to talk to him about his future. He wanted to follow after his late father, Troy Maxson, who was a former negro league baseball player. Cory finished his high school education in Pittsburgh, PA in 1956. He was a man of strong character and resilience. Unfortunately, he was unable to continue his dreams of football after a quarrel with his father. His father disagreed with his future plans with professional sports because he was unsuccessful himself. They lived during a time where sports were still segregated. His father feared that the same failure would happen to him and wanted him to pursue something else. He addressed his concerns with the barriers and discrimination in sports and saw it as a useless career for African-Americans since it was difficult to be given a shot. This led Cory to join the United States Marines. Cory wanted to make a name for himself. His dedication and commitment to his role was one of his greatest accomplishments.
Cory dedicated his life to serve his country honorably. After years of hard work and service, he was promoted to Master Sergeant. His character was respected by his peers and superiors. He was a leader and motivated others around him to be better people. After many selfless years, he earned a Medal of Honor for his display of courageousness. Cory was the type of person to run towards the danger, not away from it. He put others before himself. Cory retired from the Marines after 25 years of service.
A committed attendee of The Lord's Church of Pittsburgh, Cory's faith was a beacon in his life. He was known for his bright personality, often described as talented, smart, dedicated, loving, resilient, and strong. His impact on people around him was immeasurable, a true testament to his empathetic and loving nature. After attending his father’s funeral, he joined his mother in her faith to give back to his community and to gain guidance in his life. He used the church to give back to the children. He was an important figure in their lives. He encouraged them to pursue their dreams no matter what anyone said. He loved to play football and baseball with the kids in his free time. It was his way of spending time with the kids that didn’t have a father figure in their life or for the ones who didn’t spend enough time with their father’s. He taught everyone the importance of happiness. The church is where he met his wife, Janet, whom he married shortly after.
He was married to the love of his life, Monet Jackson, on a beautiful day in 1964. Their bond grew stronger when they were blessed with a daughter, Donna Maxson, on October 17, 1965. His adoration for his family remained a driving force throughout his life. His move to Montgomery, AL in 1969 was driven by a desire to provide a better life for his family.
He loved iced tea, playing dominos, and listening to Aretha Franklin. A lover of all things red, it was a color that truly resonated with his vibrant personality. Sports and football were his go-to recreational activities, reflecting his energy and his joy in keeping active.
Cory's loss is deeply felt by his wife Monet, his daughter Donna, and his mother Rose Maxson. His commitment to family values and unity was a testament to his devotion and love for his family.
Amidst his journey on earth, Cory taught us all invaluable lessons about the importance of pursuing our dreams and cherishing our family. His life was an embodiment of these values, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who were honored to know him.