Maverick Flinn, just 4 years old, had a heart full of kindness and a spirit bursting with curiosity touching everyone lucky enough to know him.
But that radiant light was tragically extinguished in a devastating farming accident, leaving his family heartbroken and an entire community grieving.
On Monday, June 23, a tragic incident in southern Indiana claimed the lives of 4-year-old Maverick Lee Flinn and his cherished great-grandmother, Nancy Ann “Nanny” Fox.
Maverick, remembered for his endless energy and joyful spirit, had only wanted to join his great-grandfather for a ride in the combine that day.
But when they dismounted, tragedy struck. In a heartbreaking moment, a farm tractor accident claimed both Maverick’s and Nancy’s lives.
As news of the tragedy spread, the town of Seymour responded with overwhelming compassion. Neighbors and local farmers stepped in without hesitation bringing meals, lending equipment, and helping to complete the Flinn family’s wheat harvest.
Zach Flinn, Maverick’s uncle, told WTHR that what should have taken nearly two weeks was completed in just one day:
“They brought food and brought equipment… and they harvested 12 days’ worth of wheat in 24 hours on Tuesday and Wednesday.”
The wave of support didn’t end there. A GoFundMe page launched in Maverick’s memory originally aiming to raise $5,000 for a memorial playground has already exceeded $70,000, a testament to how profoundly Maverick touched those around him.
Loved Every Moment of Life
According to his obituary, “Maverick’s laughter and boundless energy lit up every room he walked into. He never met a stranger and brought joy to everyone he encountered. His happiest moments were spent outdoors running with a smile, swimming, exploring the farm, playing soccer, having pillow fights with his cousins, and racing monster trucks. He especially loved visiting his dad at the fire station, climbing into the trucks, and bonding with the firefighters.”
Maverick’s great-grandmother, Nancy Ann “Nanny” Fox, was remembered as a loving wife, grandmother, and the heart of her family. She found deep purpose in farm life, working hand-in-hand with her husband and children, embracing every moment under the open sky.
She cherished preparing warm meals during long harvest days and savoring peaceful evenings on the back porch, overlooking the land they had built together.
Nancy Ann “Nanny” Fox, 68, passed away early Wednesday morning, June 25, 2025, at the University of Louisville Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Her obituary reads, “She was welcomed into Heaven with the biggest hug from her great-grandson, Maverick.”
Deeply Rooted in Public Service
As reported by WBIW, Maverick came from a family dedicated to serving others both his father and grandfather are firefighters. That legacy of public service has drawn widespread 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.
In hopes of preventing future tragedies, the Flinn family has launched a powerful safety reminder called the “Maverick Minute.” It urges farmers everywhere to pause for just 60 seconds before operating any machinery a simple act that could save lives.
Despite their heartbreak, the Flinns are committed to moving forward in Maverick’s memory.
“We’re going to continue on in his honor,” said Zach Flinn. “We’re going to keep farming. We’re going to try to make sure this never happens again.”
