Maxwell R. Morse

Maxwell “Maximus” Russell Morse, 22, of Rockford, Illinois, went to rest on Sunday, August 31, 2025, after shouldering the immeasurable weight of brain health challenges with unfathomable courage and heroic compassion. Born on April 18, 2003, to Damion and Tabatha Morse, Maxwell was the third of four siblings.. a beacon of joy whose vibrant spirit touched countless lives.

Maxwell abundantly blessed us in every way imaginable. Standing 6'5" tall, strikingly handsome with curly locks, his smile lit up any room. His infectious laughter and boundless energy shone radiantly in the spotlight of celebrations and the simplest behind-the-scenes moments. We celebrate the multitude of Maxwell's special memories, among them being honorably crowned Homecoming King, scoring victorious goals on the Rockford Christian High School soccer team, serving as National Honor Society President, playing fiercely for the Rockford FIRE Homeschool basketball team, and competing with Christian Life High School's football and basketball teams. At Houghton University, he proudly played Division III basketball, continuing to pursue his gift in basketball with heart and humility. Maxwell's adventurous spirit soared on the water, where he tackled stunt jumps with fearless gusto, performed endless barefoot circles, and enthusiastically graced the performing stage, captivating hundreds of audiences with the Ski Broncs Water Ski Show Team for nine unforgettable seasons. His affinity for remote control craftsmanship led to becoming a licensed Commercial Drone Pilot, which skillfully contributed to the family's business. At church, he poured his heart into working with special needs children.. an expression of the deep compassion that defines his life.

Maxwell's kindness was legendary. Whether encouraging teammates before, during, and after competition, welcoming newcomers with warmth, or sitting gently beside a child in need of extra care, he made everyone feel seen and valued. His playful-goofy dance moves.. especially proudly shaking his "bubble butt" at high school dances.. struck joy within all who knew him. A devoted follower of Jesus, Maxwell lived his faith through love, carrying and reflecting John 15:13: "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." In his battle, Maxwell's heart remained fiercely loving and selfless towards his family and friends, always seeking to shield and protect.. even while facing his own debilitating pain. His battle with brain issues did not define him; his compassion, faith, and joy did.. Maxwell’s great, protective LOVE.

Maxwell was preceded in death by his beloved grandfather, Milt Morse; great-grandparents, Martin and Kathryn Schlegel, Joseph Sr. and Betina Van Allen; and great-uncles, Joseph Van Allen Jr., Mike Hardesty and George Hertzner Sr., Dan and Sally Timmons. He is lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his devoted parents, Damion and Tabatha Morse; his cherished siblings, Malary, Mariah, and Myles; his dear grandmothers, Sue Angel and Peggy Morse; and his caring uncle and aunt, Chad (Stephanie) and Charity. He is also survived by his treasured great-uncles and great-aunts: Phil and Penny Getz, Kathy Hardesty, Barbra Hertzner, Pete and Sheri Stanitis, Mardis Knots and more. Maxwell also leaves behind a large and loving circle of cousins who adored him: Meysha, Javion (Hailey), Nevaeh, K'miah, Cole, Gentry, Cortavion, Dion, Ke'zya, Zay'vion, Melody, Myla, Myanni, Omarion, Jahkorion, Wynter and more.

Maxwell's radiant spirit and kind heart touched the lives of countless people. As a beacon of light and joy, he will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved him—his family, friends, college associates, and the Rockford community he was proud to be a part of. We honor Maxwell's legacy of love and compassion by unceasingly uplifting one another—and by selflessly offering kindness to those struggling or feeling alone. Deuteronomy 31:6 – "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified… for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you." In memory of Maxwell, we encourage you to reach towards those who may feel alone so that no one walks through life feeling forsaken.

A Celebration of Maxwell’s Life will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Visitation will be held Thursday, September 11, 2025 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Final Visitation will be Friday, September 12, 2025, from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. At Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with procession to Willwood Burial Park, 7000 W State St, Rockford, IL 61102.

Watch live online at https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=53b96fbc-090a-4e86-97b3-5bfde3627412

Donations are appreciated towards a memorial bench for Maxwell “Maximus” Morse 

May Maxwell’s legacy of love, faith, and compassion inspire us to live kindly towards others.