Services set for Cedarville University student killed in plane crash
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) – Funeral arrangements have been set for a local college student who died in the Jan. 29 Washington D.C. plane crash.
Cedarville University student Grace Maxwell, 20, was one of 67 people on PSA American Airlines Flight 5342 who died when it collided with a U.S. Army helicopter over the Potomac River.
Her service will be Tuesday, Feb. 18, at 2 p.m. EST in Wichita, Kansas. It will take place at her home church First Evangelical Free Church. Service is open to family and friends.
It will be live-streamed online here.
Maxwell was described by family and friends as 'a testament to joy, perseverance, and an unwavering faith that inspired all who knew her.'
She majored in mechanical engineering with double minors in biomedical engineering and Bible studies. She was a campus DJ and tutor.
She volunteered with multiple different organizations. She was a tutor, a YMCA lifeguard and served meals at Via Christi St. Francis.
During her time at Cedarville, Maxwell was an active member of Grace Baptist Church.
In her obituary, her family members shared about her short life and massive impact.
'Being home and eating dinner together each night, catching fireflies on summer evenings, raking leaves, watching movies, reading books and going to church were the everyday things that strengthened our bond with one another,' said Maxwell's family. 'We will never be the same without Grace, but we cherish the time God gave us.'
Her family also thanked the first responders.
'We also wish to thank American Airlines, the Red Cross, NTSB, Washington DC Medical Examiner, DC Fire & EMS along with others who went above and beyond to help the families of this tragedy,' said her family.
In lieu of flowers, her family requested that any gifts in the memory of Maxwell be given to Cedarville University. Donations can be made online or by mail to Advancement Divisions, 251 North Main Street Cedarville. Cheques can be made payable to 'Cedarville University' with 'Grace Maxwell' in the memo line.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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