James Isaac Maxwell, 87, of Welaka, FL went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at Putnam Medical Center in Palatka, FL following a brief illness.  James was born in DeKalb County, Tennessee on October 10, 1929 to Robert Lee and Annie Laura Maxwell. He was educated at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, TN where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. He went on to work for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and worked at several fish hatcheries around the country before arriving in Welaka to manage the Welaka National Fish Hatchery in 1972. He retired from his post in 1994 after 34 years of total service. A member of Welaka United Methodist Church for many years, Jim served on the board, as an usher, and also helped with church breakfasts and other activities. He enjoyed volunteering his time and talent, playing Rook, solving puzzles, and eating lots of ice cream. He loved spending time with his grandchildren/great grandchildren and taking them fishing. The family wishes to extend special thanks to the loving staff of Putnam Community Medical for all of their care and compassion.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Walter Robert Maxwell.  James is survived by his wife of 67 years, Helen Rose Maxwell of Welaka; two sons and daughters-in-law, Douglas and Rosalou Maxwell of Spanish Fort, AL, and Dennis and Lynne Maxwell of Pomona Park; five grandchildren and spouses, Monica Maxwell, Michael and Laura Maxwell, James and AlvaGayle Maxwell, Jessica Maxwell, and Rebecca and Johnny Phosavath; eleven great grandchildren, and a nephew, Johnny Maxwell.  Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 11th at Masters Funeral Home in Palatka with Pastor Dennis White and Pastor Earl Prevatt officiating. The family will begin receiving friends one hour prior to the start of the service. In honor and celebration of James’ life a Video Tribute will be shown. 

There will be visitation held at DeKalb Funeral Chapel on Thursday, April 13, 2017 from 12 Noon until 1:PM.  Graveside services and interment  will be Thursday, April 13, 2017 at Whorton Springs Cemetery with Bro. Michael Hale officiating. 

Memorial gifts may be sent to Welaka United Methodist Church.  Masters Funeral Home of Palatka, FL and DeKalb Funeral Chapel are in charge of the arrangements.  

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