He was the little boy with the bright smile and toy tractors, a bundle of joy eager to share his happiness with everyone around him.
Maverick Flinn, only 4 years old, carried a heart full of kindness and a spirit fueled by endless curiosity — touching the lives of all who knew him.
But that radiant light was tragically extinguished in a devastating farming accident, leaving his family shattered and an entire community wrapped in sorrow.
On Monday, June 23, southern Indiana was rocked by heartbreak when a fatal accident took the lives of young Maverick Lee Flinn and his cherished great-grandmother, Nancy Ann “Nanny” Fox.
That day, Maverick’s simple wish was to ride alongside his great-grandfather in the combine — a moment of joy turned unimaginable tragedy.
But tragedy struck the moment they dismounted. In a heartbreaking accident involving a farm tractor, both Maverick and his beloved great-grandmother Nancy lost their lives.
As news of the tragedy spread, the close-knit town of Seymour came together like never before. Neighbors and fellow farmers showed up in overwhelming support — delivering meals, lending equipment, and working tirelessly to help finish the family’s wheat harvest.
Zach Flinn, Maverick’s uncle, told WTHR about the remarkable community effort: “What should have taken nearly two weeks was done in just one day. They brought food, equipment… and harvested 12 days’ worth of wheat in 24 hours.”
The flood of love extended beyond the fields. A GoFundMe started in Maverick’s memory, originally seeking $5,000 to build a playground, has soared past $70,000 — a testament to how deeply this little boy touched everyone’s hearts.
A Life Loved to the Fullest
Maverick’s obituary paints a vivid picture of a boy whose laughter and boundless energy filled every room. “He never met a stranger and brought happiness to all who knew him. Whether running with a smile, swimming, exploring the farm, having pillow fights with cousins, racing monster trucks, or playing soccer, Maverick cherished every moment. He especially loved visiting his dad at the fire station, hanging out with firefighters, and exploring fire trucks — these brought him endless joy.”
Killed on his family’s Indiana farm, Maverick’s memory lives on as his community raised $50,000 for a playground in his honor and helped complete the harvest in just one day.
Remembering Nancy Ann “Nanny” Fox
Nancy Ann “Nanny” Fox was remembered as a devoted wife, grandmother, and a pillar of strength who found joy and purpose in farm life. She worked alongside her husband and family, cherishing every moment spent outdoors. Preparing meals for long days in the fields and relaxing on the back porch, soaking in the land they had nurtured together, were some of her greatest pleasures.
Her obituary reads, “Nancy Ann ‘Nanny’ Fox, age 68, passed away early Wednesday morning, June 25, 2025, at the University of Louisville Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. She was welcomed into Heaven with the biggest hug from her great-grandson, Maverick.”
A Family Dedicated to Service
Maverick’s family is deeply rooted in public service. Both his father and grandfather serve as firefighters, a legacy that has brought support from across Indiana. Indiana State Fire Marshal Steve Jones is expected to attend Maverick’s funeral on Monday, June 30, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Seymour.
Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc. is honored to assist the family of Nancy Ann “Nanny” Fox during this difficult time.
The “Maverick Minute” — A Legacy of Safety
Determined to prevent such tragedy from ever happening again, the Flinn family has launched the “Maverick Minute” — a simple but powerful call for farmers everywhere to pause for 60 seconds and thoroughly check their surroundings before operating any machinery.
Though their hearts are broken, the Flinn family is determined to carry on — for Maverick’s memory and for the safety of all.
“We’re going to continue on in his honor,” said Zach Flinn. “We’re going to keep farming and do everything we can to make sure this never happens again.”
Many prayers going up for the Fox and Flinn families.