Dickie was a well-known stalwart of Lurgan Cricket Club and for many years he was the mainstay of their 1st XI. He loved the banter and the craic of competitive games, but he also had that great capacity to show the lighter side of life when everyone around him was in the heat of battle. He was a fine player and an inspirational captain, and he loved nothing better than the big derby matches with close rivals Waringstown. He knew how to play the mind games better than anyone, and he could raise the tempo to fever pitch with both the opposition and their supporters, but just as quickly everything evaporated with one of those big infectious Dickie Maxwell smiles. He never carried any ill feeling, and over the years the Waringstown players and supporters loved him just as much as their own. Indeed, that could be said for clubs all round the country, because Dickie left an indelible impression on friend and foe alike, perhaps more because of his warm outgoing personality and friendship, than for all the wickets taken and runs scored.
He was a clubman of the highest order, and it came as a big shock when he was incapacitated with a stroke some years back. His life hung on a thread for a long time, but gradually he fought back, showing all the determination and character that had been hallmarks of his ebullient personality all his life. He would never enjoy full health again, but thanks to a devoted family and friends, he returned to watching cricket, and being in the company of the cricketers he loved.
At North Down we played against Dickie on many occasions, and whether we won or lost, he was always in the middle of the fray. He loved to banter when Lurgan got the upper hand, and if defeated, he had a string of excuses a mile long, mixed of course, with big broad smiles and laughter. He brought out the fun in cricket like nobody else of his time, but he kept everything in perspective. To him it was competitive sport, but equally it was to be enjoyed, and that shone brightly through in how he played the game. He was a good motivator and inspirational leader within his club, and he was also a generous and appreciative opponent when someone achieved a milestone of note. He usually followed it with a witty quip and off-the-cuff remark that everyone took in their stride. It was Dickie Maxwell at his best.
To Peter and the rest of the Maxwell family and friends, we extend our heartfelt sympathy, and in the midst of our sadness, we recall with much happiness the good memories we have of warm and engaging friend whom it was a true pleasure to have known.
Rest in peace Dickie Maxwell, and thanks for so many good memories.
JCH
28 May 2009
