SSgt. Maxwell B. Thurston, USAF (Ret.), 90, passed away January 25, 2021.  A native of Bartow, FL, he was educated in the local schools of Polk County, graduating from Union Academy. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the USAF, serving his country faithfully during the 1 ^st year of the military being integrated. SSgt. Thurston retired from the USAF as a Fuel Specialist after rendering over 20 years of dedicated service.  His other employment includes Maxwell House Coffee, where he retired after over 21 years of service. He was predeceased by his parents, 1 aunt, 3 brothers and 2 sisters. Survivors include his son, Chief Warrant Officer 5, Paul M. Thurston, U.S. Army (Ret.) (Jacquelyn); daughter, Ms. Hewlett E. Thurston; stepdaughter, Ms. Renee Gadling; 4 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; aunt, Mrs. Vernell M. Thomas; a number of other relatives and friends.