Jerry Maynard

Jerry Maynard, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong educator, passed away on June 6, 2023, at the age of 80. Born on February 21, 1943, in Baxter, Tennessee, Jerry dedicated his life to his family, education, and the communities he served. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Connie Maynard, whom he married on May 21, 1965. Jerry is also survived by his three sons, Kevin (Marla), Stacey (Michelle), and Brandon (Rebecca) Maynard, his brother Ronnie Maynard, and his grandchildren, whom he adored, Mackenzie, Chloe, Colton, Olivia, and Carson Maynard. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stacie Oral Maynard and Ova Grace Rice Maynard, his brother Donald Maynard, and his grandchildren Karlie and Keaton Maynard.

Jerry's passion for education started early in his life. He graduated from Putnam County Senior High School in 1961 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Tennessee Tech in 1965. He continued his education at Tennessee Tech, earning a master's degree in school administration in 1973 and a specialist in education degree in 1975. Jerry's dedication to education led him to a long and distinguished career in teaching and school administration.

Jerry began his career as an elementary teacher in Taylor, Michigan in 1965. He then moved on to work as an elementary teacher in Metro Nashville Schools before relocating to Cookeville, where he became a part of the Putnam County School System. In 1973, Jerry was appointed the principal of Sycamore Elementary School, a position he held with great pride until his retirement in 2006. Jerry's commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as he also served on the Putnam County School Board from 2006 to 2022.

In addition to his work in education, Jerry was an active member of the Putnam County community. He served on the Putnam County Commission from 1994 to 2006 and was a member of both the Cookeville Civitan Club and the Cookeville Noonday Lions Club. Jerry's dedication to his community was evident in his involvement with these organizations and in his daily interactions with those around him.

Jerry's faith was an essential part of his life, and he was a devoted member of the Sycamore Church of Christ for 50 years. His strong faith guided him throughout his life, providing him with a solid foundation for his personal and professional endeavors.

Outside of his professional and community roles, Jerry was a big fan of the Detroit Tigers baseball team. He enjoyed watching games and cheering on his favorite team whenever he had the opportunity. Jerry's love for baseball was just one of the many interests that made him a well-rounded and interesting individual.

Those who knew Jerry will remember him as a hard worker, a fair and honest man, and someone who always put others before himself. His dedication to his family, career, and community left a lasting impact on those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Jerry's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched as an educator, community leader, and loving family man.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday June 9 at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home. Bro. Edward Anderson and Bro. Clarence DeLoach will officiate. Interment will follow at Crest Lawn Cemetery. His family will receive friends Friday from 10 a.m. until service time.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sycamore Elementary School Library, 452 Ellis Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolence and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.