Phillip Ted Maxwell, Sr.

     Phillip Ted "Sam" Maxwell, Sr., age 87, of Ithaca, MI, passed away Thursday, December 4, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.
     Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes Ithaca, MI, at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, December 8, 2025, with his son, Pastor Phil Maxwell officiating. Burial will take place at Ithaca Cemetery, Ithaca, MI. Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 4:00-8:00 P.M. and again on Monday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home.
     Sam was born in North Star Township, Michigan on May 24, 1938, the son of Raymond and Angeline (Tugen) Maxwell. He graduated from Ithaca High School with the class of 1956, where he was active in FFA and 4-H. Sam married the love of his life Linda Becker and together they raised 5 children.
     Sam retired from Gratiot County Road Commission after thirty-three years of service and was a lifelong farmer in Gratiot County. Sam enjoyed cutting wood, camping, hunting and raising animals. He enjoyed watching westerns and was an avid Detroit Lions and Tigers fan. He will be remembered for his gift to invent and build. Sam could create anything he set his mind to, including cattle trailers, wood splitters and things to help with everyday tasks. Sam had an incredible work ethic and was willing to help anyone in need. Above all, he had unconditional love for his family. He proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves.
     He is survived by his wife Linda Maxwell, his children: Cheryl (Van) Colburn, Cindi (Mark) Trebian, Becky (Rick) Rummer, Patty (Brent) Allen, and Phil (Wendy) Maxwell, Jr.; and his sister Ruth Wymer. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Brad (Michelle) Hallock, Chad (Jenni) Hallock, Tim (Alyssa) Colburn, Jordan Hanline, Keenen (Sitera) Rummer, Tyler (Claire) Allen, Brook (Keith) Irani, Luke Maxwell, and Samantha (Logan) Rodriguez; 10 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his twin sister Phyllis Heathcock, his brother Richard Maxwell, his grandson Thomas Colburn, great-grandsons: Brantley and Dierks Colburn and brothers-in-law: Richard Heathcock and Carl Wymer.
     Memorials may be made to the American Parkinson's Disease Association. Online condolences may be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.