Leon “Pops” Maxwell

Leon Maxwell, 67, of Billings passed into the loving arms of Jesus on May 1, 2010, at home with his children by his side.Leon was born on June 30, 1942 to Milton and Rosie Ann Maxwell in Hutto, Texas. He was one of seven children. Growing up, Leon worked with his family as a farmhand in Grandview, Texas. In 1960 the family moved to New Mexico where he attended the New Mexico Military Institute and worked in the kitchen as a cook.While living in New Mexico he received training to work for the gas company of New Mexico with hopes of one day working on the Alaskan Pipeline. In the 80s Leon moved to Billings, Montana where he worked for MDU as a pipefitter/operator for many years. He enjoyed playing mens fast pitch softball at North Park where he became known and respected for his unconventional style of pitching. He could pitch an unbelievable curveball and gravity defying rise ball.He was a member of Freedom Church for over 18 years. He loved the Lord with all his heart and tried to spread The Word to everyone he met. He was a father figure, spiritual mentor, coach and friend to so many. He will be truly missed.He is preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Rosie Ann; brothers Julius and Emmitt; sister Olla.Leon is survived by his 6 children, Darwin (Kim), Gwendale, Gwendolyn, Lashay, Chelsey (William), Whitney; 10 grandchildren, Skylar, Kayla, Tyrone, Kiahnna, Kendra, La Porcha, Buddy, Brooklynn, Zaina, Darryn; 4 great- grandchildren, Jordis, Leon, Tashawn, Tyronna; 3 sisters, Lillian (Russ), Earnestine, Dorothy Ann. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at Freedom Church. A memorial trust fund is being set up for Leons 12 year old daughter, Whitney, at Rimrock Credit Union, 952 Central Ave, Billings, MT 59102 or memorials can also be made to Freedom Church, 550 32nd St W, Billings, MT 59102. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.dahlfuneralchapel.com