Lynne Maynard

Lynne Maynard was carried on the wings of angels to her Heavenly Father on Aug. 21, 2020, surrounded by loving friends and family.

Her 76 years on Earth were a demonstration of spiritual guidance, a love and interest in all people and her enduring friendships with so many in this community and beyond.

She rejoiced at finding and accepting Christ, which eventually led to membership in the First United Methodist Church of Cambridge. As a member, she enjoyed the weekly “passing the peace of Christ,” singing in the choir and participating in church activities. One of Lynne’s most cherished experiences was attending the Central Ohio Women’s #121 “Walk to Emmaus” during November 2016. She was passionate about her faith in God.

As a gay woman proud of her sexuality, Lynne never acquiesced to her cancer or discrimination. Strength and determination resonated with everyone who knew Lynne as she championed all forms of non-discrimination.

She was born and raised by her mother and lived amid a large and extended family of German heritage in New Haven, Conn. At the age of 3, her mother, with Lynne, relocated to Columbus, Ohio, where Lynne would reside until graduation from Eastmoor High School.

She would progress to human resources executive positions at several major hotel groups, predominantly in equal employment opportunity (EEO) compliance. Her career would take her to positions in Cleveland, St. Louis and Chicago, until she left her corporate job in 1979 and moved to Cambridge to begin a new chapter.

As an entrepreneur, Lynne would go on to launch several small businesses, including Nookie’s restaurant, an automotive service facility and the Lube Depot quick oil-change shop. Her hobbies included golfing, listening to classical music and ardent support for the “Fighting Irish” of the University of Notre Dame.

In her spare time, she became a volunteer firefighter, certified by the State of Ohio. Additionally, Lynne became one of the first women to be accepted into the auxiliary program by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, retiring with the rank of Major. She also was one of the first female members (Elkette) of the Elks USA and supported its benevolent community outreach, benefitting special needs children, scholarships, scouting, athletic teams, veterans’ works and so much more.

She took the training and became a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)/ Guardian ad litem (GAL) through the Juvenile court to work with children who have been removed from their natural settings. Many of her cases ended with successful adoptions. Lynne’s enthusiasm for the critical work that CASA does in the community was her pride and joy.

Finally, her volunteer work included being a long-term member of Hospice of Guernsey, Inc. Board of Directors, serving as Board Chair for many years. Her commitment to this organization was unwavering.

Lynne’s infectious smile, her selflessness and her loving kindness to all living beings were well known by everyone.

In a recent visit with Lynne, she said: “A lot of people feel I am a ‘light’ and that I show them happiness. But really, I’m not such a special person, but I believe so firmly in my faith.”

“I just want people to know that there is true happiness out there. And if you want to be happy you can go out and get it. Don’t rely on other people to make you happy,” she said.

Lynne is survived by her beloved life partner Dr. Karen D. Steele of Anderson, S.C., her rescued special fur companion “Kippy,” brother Mark P. Maynard and sister-in-law Kristine Higgins (of San Diego) and her nephew, Nathaniel J. Maynard (Taiwan).

Additionally, of significance, are her many dear friends and family who were so meaningful to Lynne (and you all know of your inclusion here).

Rev. Randolph White and Rev. Caleb McClure will officiate the Celebration of Life Memorial Service to be held at Unity Presbyterian Church in Cambridge at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 29. Masks are required as are additional COVID-19 protocol precautions. The church entrance is from Brown Avenue handicapped accessible ramp doorway.

Condolences or other expressions of love may be recorded online at the Thorn-Black Funeral Homes, Inc. website, www.thorn-blackfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Guernsey Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge or Pound Dog Partners, P.O. Box 1384, Cambridge.

Masks are required as are additional COVID-19 protocal precautions.

Masks are required as are additional COVID-19 protocal precautions.

Saturday, August 29, 2020 11:00 AM

Unity Presbyterian Church 130 N 7th Street Cambridge, OH 43725

Masks are required as are additional COVID-19 protocal precautions.

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