Billy Joe Maxwell

Billy Joe Maxwell left this earth Tuesday evening, February 2, 2026, at his home in Waco surrounded by family. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, February 12, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held after the visitation at The Salty Dog.

Billy was born on May 27, 1937, and grew up as a resident of Waco. He was the youngest son of Jimmie R. Maxwell and Essie Mae Davis Maxwell. His wife, LaJuan Harrison Maxwell, passed away 5 years prior, and he was at her side in her final years as her constant caregiver. He was a longtime active member of Cogdell United Methodist Church where he made many lifelong friends.

Billy worked with many people in the Waco and surrounding areas for over 70 years. He worked many years at Oriental Rug Company and later The Maxwell Company specializing in flooring for home and commercial.

He was a longtime supporter of Lake Air Little Baseball and Softball and had the joy of coaching all his children and many other young men and women of the Waco area. He instilled a love of the sport that will never be forgotten.

Billy was preceded in death by his children, Ricky Maxwell and wife, Lisa; Bradley Maxwell and wife, Rebecca; Melissa Peschel and husband, Ronnie; Blake Maxwell, and Sean Sosenka.

He is survived by his grandchildren Zachary Maxwell, Brently Maxwell, Courtney Ledbetter and husband Logan Ledbetter, Ryan Peschel and wife Ashley, Brandon Maxwell, and Ethan Maxwell. Great grandchildren include Lexie Maxwell, Whitley Maxwell, Hendrix Ledbetter, Akin James Ledbetter, Beck Ryan Ledbetter, Hayes Peschel, and Nash Ryan Peschel.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Baylor Scott and White Hospice.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Billy in his “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com