W. Henry Maxwell

Walter Henry Maxwell, Sr. (April 3, 1935 – November 13, 2010) was an American politician and Baptist minister from Newport News, Virginia. A Democrat, he served in the Virginia House of Delegates 1983–1993 and the Senate of Virginia 1993–2004.

Early life, education, career Maxwell was born April 3, 1935, in Reidsville, North Carolina, and raised in Newport News. Maxwell graduated from George Washington Carver High School in 1951. He then attended Norfolk State University and Virginia State University, and earned a Bachelor of Theology degree from Virginia Seminary and College. The same school awarded him a Doctor of Theology degree in 1974. Incumbent Democratic Delegate Bobby Scott was elected in November 1982 to the new 95th district. Before taking office in the new seat, Scott won a December special election to fill a vacancy in the 2nd Senate district. The Democratic Party nominated Maxwell to replace Scott, and on January 11, 1983, he defeated Republican James W. Parker, getting 83.8% of the vote. The following November Maxwell won a full House term, gaining 74.5% of the vote against two independents.

Maxwell was reelected without opposition in 1985 and 1989. In 1987 and 1991, he defeated independent candidates, getting more than 80% of the vote each time.

Death Maxwell died of complications from diabetes and Parkinson's disease on November 13, 2010, while staying with his daughter near Detroit, Michigan. He was buried in Hampton, Virginia.