ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The City of Albuquerque has renamed a softball field at Los Altos Park in honor of longtime city employee, coach, umpire, and community leader Ray Maxey, recognizing decades of service both on and off the field.
During a ceremony held on what would have been Maxey’s birthday, city officials formally dedicated Softball Field No. 1 as Ray Maxey Field. Family members, city employees, softball players, and community members gathered for the unveiling of a commemorative sign and plaque celebrating his legacy.
The dedication was made through Mayor Tim Keller’s Stories of Us initiative, which honors individuals whose contributions have helped shape Albuquerque and strengthen local communities.
Maxey worked for the City of Albuquerque for 30 years, spending the final two decades of his career with the Parks and Recreation Department’s Sports Division. City leaders say he played a key role in supporting and growing recreational sports programs throughout Albuquerque.
His impact extended far beyond his city employment. For more than 15 years, Maxey served as a softball league supervisor and umpire, becoming a familiar presence on ballfields across the city. He also coached men’s and women’s teams for decades, helping athletes compete in state, national, and world championship tournaments.
A graduate of Rio Grande High School, Maxey was a standout athlete in football, baseball, and basketball. He later played collegiate sports at New Mexico State University and Western New Mexico University, earning Small College All-American honors during his football career.
In the softball community, Maxey was known for mentoring generations of players and helping guide New Mexico teams to numerous championships. In 2022, he received the Senior Sports Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award and is scheduled to be inducted into the New Mexico USSSA Hall of Fame in 2027.
Maxey passed away in July 2026. Friends, teammates, and city officials say his legacy will live on through the athletes, families, and community members he inspired throughout his life.
