Maxie Morris, a man whose life was marked by love, laughter, and unwavering strength, passed away on May 25, 2026, in Atchison, Kansas. Born on June 14, 1944, in Newberry, South Carolina to Hoyt and Margaret Morris, Maxie’s journey began in a small town that would shape the values he carried throughout his life.

Graduating from Newberry High School, Maxie soon answered the call of duty and joined the United States Army in 1964, a testament to his strong will and dedication to his country. After his service, he built a career that culminated in his retirement from Mutual Savings in Leavenworth, Kansas, where he was known not just as a diligent professional but also as a beacon of kindness and humor.

Maxie’s personality could be best described as funny and loving—especially toward his family and extended family. Those who knew him cherish memories of time well spent, like the days in Myrtle Beach when they enjoyed the sun and sand, the warmth of family gatherings, and the joy of simply being together in South Carolina. These moments remain etched in the hearts of those who loved him.

An avid sports fan, Maxie’s passion for the South Carolina Gamecocks, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Jayhawks was well known. Yet, his love of sports went beyond cheering from the sidelines; he delighted in playing basketball, softball, golf, and volleyball, activities that brought him both joy and camaraderie.

Family was the cornerstone of Maxie’s life. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Dana Morris of Leavenworth, Kansas, who stood by his side through life’s joys and challenges. His daughter, Angela Morris, who resides in South Carolina, carries forward his legacy. Maxie’s spirit lives on in his five grandchildren—Jessica Crocker, Erin Morris, Joshua Crocker, Megan Craig, and Ryan Morris—and in his five great-grandchildren, Jaida, Tycen, Nathan, Abbi, and Bryleigh, who brought endless light to his days.

Maxie also embraced his step-family with equal warmth and affection. His step-children, Connie (Harold) Poe, Penny (Bob) Barrette, and Becky Cowan, along with his step-grandchildren Deb Poe, Rob Barrette, Laura Barrette, Lane Barrette, Cassie (Ritchie) Vanderhoof, and Brandon Cowan, were an extension of the family he so dearly held.

His brother, James (Carol) Morris, alongside niece Lacey Morris and nephews Evan (Mary) Morris, Randy Brunson, Chad Brunson, and James Osbourne, remain pillars of strength and remembrance in his family circle.

The memories of those who have passed on before Maxie add a bittersweet depth to his story. He was predeceased by his son, Michael Morris; his parents, step-daughter, Debbie Hamilton; step-son, Brian Cowan; step-granddaughters, Melissa Poe Myers and Sarah Barrette; and his sister and brother-in-law, Betty (Marvin) Brunson. Their absence is deeply felt, yet Maxie’s life and love continue to inspire those who remain.

A memorial service will be held on June 8, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Davis Funeral Chapel, located at 531 Shawnee St, Leavenworth, Kansas. It will be a time for all who knew Maxie to gather, remember, and celebrate a life that touched so many.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Colony Lutheran Church, located at 48 Colony Church Road, Newberry, South Carolina, by the Rev. Terry Hundley.

Maxie Morris’s story is one of enduring love, hearty laughter, and an unbreakable spirit—a narrative cherished by all who had the privilege to know him. As we bid farewell, his memory remains a tender embrace in the hearts of all, a reminder of a life lived fully and a legacy that will endure through generations.