Whether you knew him for a lifetime or only a few minutes, you loved Max. It was that smile, kindness and gentleness he extended to everyone he met.
Born and raised in Louisa, Ky., Max earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in education from Eastern Kentucky University and went on to earn a Rank 1 certification from Morehead State University.
Known to many Lawrence Countians as “Mr. Young,” Max began his career as a business education and typing teacher at Louisa High School in 1962, later becoming vice-principal, then principal (1972-76), of Louisa High School. He then served in Lawrence County Schools administrative positions until he retired in 1995. So many Louisa High School alumni recall what Max taught them about business, typing and life.
Max’s love for and pride in Lawrence County ran as deep as his roots – from his lifetime membership in the Louisa Rotary Club and the Jaycees, to sharing historical images of his home county with his many Facebook friends.
A lifelong UK basketball fan who wouldn’t miss a game (no one should stand between him and the TV), Max loved every minute of serving as a member of the Committee of 101 for many years, volunteering at games and visiting with old friends and his Committee of 101 buddies.
In 1998, he fought his way back from paralysis caused by Guillain-Barré Syndrome, relearning to walk thanks to his characteristic determination and optimism. Max loved gardening, his patio, knockout roses, music of all kinds, ice cream and the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate. But more than anything, he loved his family. A devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather, Max married the love of his life, Glenna Blevins Young, 59 years ago. He is survived by Glenna, as well as their daughter, Vikki Young Franklin (Jeff) of Lexington, and his pride and joy, his grandchildren who adored their Papaw: Curtis Walter Franklin (Danielle) of Savannah, Ga., and Ella Glynn Franklin of Lexington.
Max taught his family kindness, patience, honesty, the value of hard work, perseverance and, above all, to find the laughter and joy in life. Perhaps his favorite pastime was giving people a hard time, always in a friendly way that let you know he just wanted you to have some fun too.
The last surviving child of Curt and Myrtle Fyffe Young, Max, who attended the Methodist Church, is preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Joe, Joy (McGee), Matthew and Darlene.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 29, 2023, at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home on Harrodsburg Road in Lexington. Visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m. with service at 12:30 p.m. A graveside service will follow at the Lexington Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Campton Methodist Church (PO Box 159, Campton, KY 41301) or the Lexington Rescue Mission (PO Box 1050, Lexington, KY 40588).
