Laura Maxwell, 88, passed away on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 from cancer. 

She was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan.  As a teenager, she became a Christian and throughout her life she loved God and her family.  Laura and her husband Melvin moved to Winter Haven in 1985.  Together they began Park Ministries.  With a team of many volunteers they provide spiritual and physical care for hundreds of people in central Florida.  For 16 years, Laura was the Head Librarian at Ohio Christian University.  She loved reading and continually knitted for her family.  She was a precious gift to each one of them. 

     Laura is survived by her husband of 67 years Melvin, sisters Lois and Doris, three children, Larry, John and Trish, 8 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

     Viewing will take place at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Winter Haven Thursday from 6 to 8 PM.  The memorial service will be held at 1^st. Church of the Nazarene at 10 AM Friday.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Park Ministries in care of Barbara Harrison, 155 Zermat, Winter Haven, FL .