George “Sonny” Robert Maxim

AUGUSTA – George “Sonny” Robert Maxim, formerly of Winthrop, passed away peacefully on Dec. 23, 2024, at Andwell Hospice House, surrounded by family visiting in person and through video calls during his final days. He was born in Winthrop, on Oct. 1, 1931, the seventh of nine children to Adelbert W. Maxim and Hazel Penniman Maxim.

Sonny attended a one-room schoolhouse for grades K–8 before continuing at Winthrop High School. After completing his junior year, he received permission from his father to join the Army. Sonny served with honor for three years and seven months, including 17 months in the Korean War. Dedicated to personal growth, he earned his GED in 1962.

Upon returning in 1951, Sonny worked various jobs and, a few years later, met the love of his life, Ethel A. Belden. After six months of courting, filled with many dancing dates, the two were married on June 13, 1953. Together, they raised three children and created countless cherished memories through camping trips, snowmobiling, and family visits.

Of all the jobs Sonny held, he found his greatest joy in driving school buses for the Winthrop School Department, both for regular routes and sporting events.

Sonny was predeceased by his parents; his beloved wife, Ethel; his sisters Cleo Maxim, Madolyn Riggs, Ella Jane Witherall, and Lila Sciuk; his brothers Adelbert Jr. and Francis Malcolm Maxim; and great-grandchildren Jaedyn and Aidan.

He is survived by his daughters, Ginger Sponsler and husband Jim, and Melody McGrath and husband Joe; his son, Dana Maxim and wife Ann; his grandchildren, Jadine (Jamie), Nathan (Waneta), Chris, Steven, Angela (Jeff), Sarah (Nick), Hilary (Jon), and Kelsey; his sisters, Theresa Breton and Emily Joyce Goodie; 10 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the workers and volunteers from Andwell Health Partners Home Care and Hospice House for their compassionate care during Sonny’s time in hospice. They also want to express their appreciation to the residents and staff of the Margaret Chase Smith House in Augusta for their kindness and warmth during Sonny’s seven-year residency.

A graveside service will take place on June 14, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Glenside Cemetery, Turkey Lane, Winthrop, where Sonny will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Ethel.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.