obituary

Deacon Jacques L. Maynard

Posted

WARWICK — Deacon Jacques L. Maynard, 79, of New London Avenue, a member of the first class of permanent deacons in the Diocese of Providence, died June 16 at home. He was the husband of Velma (Kennedy) Maynard for 55 years.

Born in West Warwick, he was the son of the late “Boko” and Hattie (Forcier) Maynard.

He was an educator all of his life, and taught English at Warwick Veterans Memorial High School. Following retirement in 1987, after spending more than 30 years in the classroom, he and his wife enjoyed 10 years working as tour directors for Collette Tours, leading travelers to various parts of the United States and Europe.

He was a captain in the U.S. Army Reserves and a member of the 82nd Airborne Division.

Deacon Maynard was ordained to the permanent diaconate on June 20, 1976. His ministries included adult education, instructing the Rite of Christian Initiation to Adults, and serving as chaplain for the Daughters of Isabella. He was a charter member of the Mary Doran Council, Knights of Columbus.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by eight children, Michael, Karen Colapietro, Gwen Maynard, Jeffrey (wife Pauline), Melanie Lindgren (husband John), Timothy (wife Collette), Christopher, Eric (wife Lori), and 17 grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters, Theresa Tavernier and Marita Dow; and a brother, G. Charles Maynard. He was predeceased by two brothers, Teddy and Norman Maynard.

A concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated June 20 at St. Mary Church, West Warwick. Burial, with military honors, was in the parish cemetery.