by Mark D. Weinstein, Executive Director of Public Relations
Grace Maxwell Remembered One Year After Potomac River Plane Crash
Nearly one year after the mid-air collision over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. that claimed the lives of 67 people, including Cedarville University junior Grace Maxwell, family and friends of the victims honored their loved ones in a two-hour tribute at the DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, Jan. 28.
Cedarville Student’s Legacy of Faith and Encouragement Lives On
Family and friends remember Grace Maxwell as a tender, loving and forgiving young woman whose faith in Jesus and warmth left a lasting mark on everyone she met. Maxwell, 20, was returning to Cedarville University, where she was studying mechanical and biomedical engineering, from her grandfather's funeral.
Those closest to the young college student describe Grace as a “beautiful soul” — a daughter, sister and friend who lived with openness and purpose. In addition to her academic studies, she hosted a morning radio show on Resound Radio at Cedarville where she often spoke candidly about life’s struggles. In one radio segment, shared with the Maxwell family, Grace commented, “It’s OK to have a bad day. It’s going to get better. I promise.”
Grace had perspective beyond her age.
Honoring Grace Maxwell and the Heroes of the Crash
In remembering Grace, her parents, Dean and Merav, and brother, Leo, say her words now offer comfort on the first anniversary of her death. Grief, they say, remains constant, but so does hope. And, they believe her laughter will echo in their hearts forever.
During the Washington ceremony, several unsung heroes were honored for their work after the crash and the days afterward. One of the heroes, a Cedarville University alumnus, was recognized for recovering Grace from the wreckage — a detail Dean and Merav describe as a small but meaningful connection. In reflecting on the tragedy, the Maxwells say their faith, church community and the Cedarville University community continue to sustain them, trusting that even through loss, blessings can still emerge.
Watch the Full Tribute and Special Report on Grace Maxwell
Honoring the 67 and Unsung Heroes program: YouTube tribute program from Washington, D.C. honors the lives lost, their families, and those who served them. Grace’s own words and prayer begin at 1:56:25.
Special KAKE TV Report: Watch here.
