Ronald David Maxwell, 93, of Pine Knoll Shores, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Crystal Coast Hospice House.

A memorial service honoring Ronald’s life will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Shepherd of the Sea Lutheran Church in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Ronald was born on August 14, 1932, in Springfield, Massachusetts, to the late David Simpson Maxwell and Alice Hunter Maxwell. He proudly served four years in the United States Navy, carrying with him a strong sense of dedication and service throughout his life.

Music became an important part of Ronald’s life at an early age. When he was 15, his parents gave him his first Gibson guitar, recognizing his natural musical ability and encouraging a passion that would remain with him for the rest of his life. As a young man, Ronald played in a band with friends and took voice lessons. Music was truly in his blood and became one of the great joys of his life.

Ronald graduated from Springfield College in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree, earning “High Praise” recognition.

On August 27, 1955, Ronald married his beloved wife, Janice “Jan” Maxwell. In 1960, Ron and Jan moved to Madison, Connecticut, where they raised their children and built a life together.

After retiring from INA, where he worked as an insurance adjuster, Ron and Jan opened The Madison Music Center, which they operated from their home. Together, they served their community and local schools by providing instrument rentals, musical accessories, and other services. While Jan managed the store, Ron shared his talents by giving guitar lessons.

Ron was also a member of the musical group Spindrift, performing for many years at weddings, parties, clubs, and other special occasions.

After operating The Madison Music Center for approximately 10 years, a last-minute vacation to Morehead City introduced Ron and Jan to the Crystal Coast. In 1987, they fully retired and made Pine Knoll Shores, North Carolina, their home.

Retirement did not mean retiring from music. Ron continued giving guitar lessons to children and adults and also taught classes at Carteret Community College, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with generations of students.

Ron was a dedicated member of Shepherd of the Sea Lutheran Church, where he continued to share his love of music by serving as the church’s music director. His faith and music were deeply meaningful parts of his life, and he cherished the opportunity to serve his church and congregation through his talents.

When he wasn’t playing or teaching music, Ron enjoyed fishing, boating, and, most of all, spending time with his family.

Those remaining to cherish his memory include his daughter, Heather Maxwell of Morehead City; son, Paul Maxwell and wife Patricia Maxwell of Morehead City; granddaughters, Madison Struyk and husband CJ, and Karlie Fritz and husband Justin; grandson, Bryan Maxwell; and great-granddaughter, Sevey Struyk, daughter of Madison and CJ, along with a second great-grandchild expected soon.

In addition to his parents, Ronald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice “Jan” Maxwell.

Ronald will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his faith, his service to others, and a lifelong love of music that he generously shared with his family, students, church, and community.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ronald’s memory to Martha Missions Cupboard, P.O. Box 603, Morehead City, NC 28557 or Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.