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Dr. Maple Leroy Avery

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Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home - Burnet

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Burnet, Texas

Maple Avery Obituary

Dr. Maple Leroy Avery Dr. Maple Leroy Avery passed away at his home in Burnet, Texas on August 25 at the age of 80 after a courageous struggle with brain cancer. He was born in El Paso, Texas on November 4, 1930. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, formerly Iva Jo Johnson of Brady, Texas. They were childhood sweethearts graduating together from Brady High. Surviving children are Jan Avery Gaut and husband Tommy Gaut of Burnet, Texas, Dr. Graham Avery and his wife, Mary Jane of Beaumont, Texas, and Kenda Avery Blikre and her husband, Wayne Blikre, of Miami, Florida. He had one grandchild, Alexandra Miles Avery. Maple Avery started life as an orphan, living with his adopted grandmother in Brady and graduating from Brady High in 1948. He had accepted a call to the ministry at the age of 14 and while studying at Howard Payne and then Baylor University, he pastored at several churches including a small Baptist church in Padgitt, and Plainview Baptist Church near Colorado City. In June of 1951 he was called to the East Fourth Street Baptist Church in Big Spring and pastored there as he completed his degree at Baylor University, graduating "cum laude" in 1956. Other pastorates followed, First Baptist Levelland and then University Baptist in Abilene. From Abilene he moved to Galveston where he made a life changing career choice by entering medical school at University of Texas Medical Branch and receiving his medical degree with highest honors in 1965. After an internship at Baptist Hospital in Houston he spent several years working as a general practitioner in Cleveland and Conroe, Texas. The specialty of ophthalmology held special fascination for him so at 41, he applied and was accepted in the residency program at University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston at the Hermann Eye Center. He received his certification after three years and returned to Conroe where he practiced ophthalmology for 30 years finishing his career at the Avery Eye Center. His life is best summed up by a quote from a letter from an old friend. "Surely no one else started out with so little, worked so hard, accomplished so much, and did so much good in this world." Special thanks go to his caregivers for the last few months who made his life more comfortable in a difficult time. From Circle of Hands we wish to recognize Jay Gibson, Yadira Arreguin, Richard Hood, Jennifer Jones, and owner, Debra Kelly. Many thanks also to Don Berryhill and Sandy Hahn from Life Made Easy Home HealthCare as well as Seton Highland Lakes Home Health/ Hospice. The memorial service is to be held at 3:00 p.m. at Walnut Methodist Church in Round Mountain, Texas on September 3, 2011 with an outdoor reception to follow. Directions are one mile west on 3347 from the 3347 intersection with 962. Walnut church is truly a "little brown church in the vale". In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his honor to The Hermann Eye Fund, 6400 Fannin Street, Suite 1800, Houston, Texas 77030. Please offer condolences to www.clementswilcoxburnet.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Austin American-Statesman on Aug. 31, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Maple Avery

Sponsored by Kenda Avery, Daughter.

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rob adams

May 23, 2019

A great preacher of the gospel and a fine doctor.

Karen Powell

January 15, 2018

Dear Avery Family,

I have just found this notice -- please accept my much delayed condolences on your loss. My parents, Jim and Jimmie Powell, my sister Catherine, and I were blessed to have Dr. Avery as our pastor in both Levelland and Abilene and I can remember many happy times when our families were together. Dr. Avery's impact on my own life was immeasurable, as he led me to Christ and baptized me, and I will great him in heaven with great joy and thanksgiving for inspiring me to strive toward a godly, loving life.
My parents are both in heaven now, so I know only too well that we never stop missing those we love who have gone before us . . . I wish you many happy memories until you are reunited.
With love and heartfelt sympathy,
Karen

Michael Smith

April 3, 2017

Dr. Avery conducted a revival at my church in Houston when I was a teenager. I went to every service and still remember his captivating, enchanting and uplifting sermons. They were replete with science, morality, and relevance to my personal life. I have thought of him often over the more than 50 years since I last saw him.
I have had a very successful career and am proud to say I have a large loving family. I have worked and lived all over the world. Dr Avery's approach to life and the gospel have contributed to the core of my personal relationship with God.
Last weekend I mentioned him to some friends over dinner and decided to look him up online. I am very sorry to learn of his passing but in was any of his loved ones still refer to this page I wanted you to know the impact he has had on my life.
May God Bless and keep you,
Michael Smith

Donna Shelton

September 18, 2011

My sincere sympathy to each of you in this time of great loss. Dr. Avery was the best teacher I ever heard and each time I saw his name on the guest speakers list at South Main Baptist Church in Houston, I made sure to be a part of the class. Not only did his command of the Bible astound me, but his knowledge of history brought the lesson to life. A gentle soul upon this earth who touched so many. You were blessed to have him as a husband, father and grandfather. We were blessed to have him as a physician, teacher and friend.
Blessings and peace to you.
Donna Yaws Shelton
Montgomery, Texas

Janet Spurlin

September 12, 2011

Iva Jo, I am Janet Kendrick and was only 10 yrs old when you and Maple came to East Fourth Baptist in Big Spring, TX. He made God become alive in my life and a great continuing pleasure of reading my Bible. I have too many good memories of him and Billy Rudd to list and the impact they had on my life in my teenage years. I truly believe I was blessed to have known him. We will have you and your family in our prayers. God Bless you and yours.

Pat Rudd Rhoton

September 7, 2011

Iva Jo,You might remember me as Pat Rudd, daughter of Billy Rudd. We can be sure that there is a great reunion going on in heaven right now with my Dad and our special friend, Maple Avery.How they loved each other! And how we loved Maple. He performed our wedding ceremony in Big Spring over 54 years ago. Blessings and Prayers,
Pat & Sonny Rhoton

Angela Fernandez

September 7, 2011

Dear Kenda,
He was there with you when you came into this world and you were there with him when he left. Not many can do that.

Know you're loved.
Kind regards,

Jennifer Strickland

September 7, 2011

Dr. Avery was the Best! He was a gentle, caring, christian doctor. May God bring comfort and peace to his family an all who had the privilege to call him friend.

Debbie Buckalew-Campbell

September 6, 2011

Dear Kenda & Family -- I was saddened to hear of Maple's passing. It seems more & more of the Conroe High Class of '75 are reuniting under these circumstances. May you find peace in recalling his remarkable life & in knowing the impact he had on so many during his time on earth. Let me hear from you sometime - especially if you visit Montgomery County. 713-201-6640

Norma Arrendell

September 6, 2011

I remember a visit I made to Dr. Avery for myself when Dr. Robert Gordon couldn't see me. I never felt so safe and cared for. I think it was his eyes and very nature set me at ease. Then again, when my Dad was losing his sight and Dr. Avery took care of the implant there in his Cleveland office. He truly has left a legacy of those who will long remember his skill and kindness.

Keith Davis

September 6, 2011

I'm originally from Levelland,Tx. I remember my Dad telling stories about Maple Avery when I was very young.He was one of the only preachers my Dad ever admired. As a matter of fact Maple Avery was one of my very first memories in life. Coincidentally, he died on my birthday. Keith Davis

Jay Remley

September 5, 2011

Dr. Avery left a positive impression on all who met him. He was a a gifted man who generously gave back to others as he ministered to both their physical and spiritual needs. He repaired a detached retina in my eye 35 years ago which is still holding strong. Well done good and faithful servant!

September 4, 2011

Our deepest sympathy to you in your loss, including the months apparently leading up to it. Thank you for the obituary in the Houston Chronicle, since we otherwise might not have known. Our prayers are with all of you.
Sincerely, George and Mary Collins

Sallie Hughes

September 3, 2011

It grieved my heart to learn of the passing of Dr. Avery. He was my mother and sister's pastor at Levelland, TX (Jewel & Peggy Wiley) and they baby sat for the Avery's. Mother also worked in the church nursery, too. He truly was a special man and later became our eye doctor here in Conroe.

My sympathy goes out to the family at this time - know that your strength comes from the Lord!!

September 3, 2011

About 20 years ago my husband recommended me to see Dr. Avery when I need an eye checkup. He smiled so much and was so kind. Before I left he smiled again and told me not to wait another 40 years to get the next checkup.
I am sorry to hear of his loss.
Bettie Hairston

Marilyn

September 2, 2011

Kenda, you precious, darling, baby girl, the opportunity for us to work together these last two years and for you to become my friend was one of the most wonderful gifts your dad ever gave anyone. I treasure your friendship.
From the first day Maple, Iva, Harold and I all explored your future home site, until the last day he visited it from his wheelchair, his excitement about the project was palpable. Just knowing the joy he experienced as the site grew more beautiful every day and the house neared completion should comfort you as you begin your new life in Texas.
Maple will always be there - looking out for you, watching sunsets, filling your house with love.

Reba Riddle Harry

September 2, 2011

Maple Avery was pastor in Big Spring, Tx, East Fourth Baptist Church. I was a mere child, but knew he was such a dynamic person, and most of all pastor to the members. I think he was in his 20's,I just remember he set our world on fire every Sunday morning and all through the time he was there. Such a blessed man. Sincere condolences to the Avery family. I noticed something else I didn't know, in reading some of the messages, you have a daughter named Kenda, and we have a daughter named Kenda. Bless all of Maple's family

Marilyn and Harold Hartl

September 2, 2011

Dearest Iva, we were looking at pictures from trips we've taken, Christmas parties, memories we've collected through the years - they all reminded us of how much joy you and Maple brought into our lives. Having you as friends has been such a gift. Over these years you have no idea how many people have told us they felt incredibly fortunate that Maple had become part of the Walnut Church family...that his occasional sermons filled them with hope and pride in our country, and that they were in awe of Maple’s spectacular intellectual gifts. Having him as our friend, with the marvelous, spirited conversations and exchange of ideas we enjoyed has been one of the great blessings of our lives. Harold feels as if he’s lost a part of himself…the best part. We will both miss Maple so much, but we know he’s found solace. We pray the same for you and your family. Marilyn and Harold

Danette Patterson

September 2, 2011

My sincere condolences to the enire Avery family. I work with Kenda at Amadeus in Miami, Florida. It is an honor and pleasure to say that I know her. I'm sure Dr. Avery was an incredibly special man to raise such a wonderful daughter.

Bess McDowell

September 2, 2011

Iva and family,
I am so glad I was able to see Maple in late march. I remember how much fun Tom and I had being with you through the years in Burnet. Maybe Maple and Tom can toast each other for a new life in their final home.

Love you all,
Bess McDowell

Joyce Harrell Watson

September 2, 2011

My prayers go with the Avery family in this time of loss. Dr. Avery was my pastor at East Fourth Street Baptist Church in Big Spring, Texas when I was growing up. In fact, he conducted my father's funeral, Troy Harrell, there in September 1954. We knew he had gone into the medical field as he felt this was God's calling and now know that he blessed many by following this decision. God will continue to bless your family as well as those he helped.

September 2, 2011

I don't know Dr. Avery personally, but I have the chance to work with his daughter Kenda and her husband Wayne. When I see how wonderful person Kenda is, I can see how a wonderful father he was.
My deepest sympathy to all the family.

Harold, Miami

September 1, 2011

Maple was the pastor in Levelland at First Baptist church, and although a Methodist, I went to listen to some of his sermons. Then I knew him in Medical School, UTMB Galveston, and satiroally he would lecture on a certain " subset " of communicable diseases. He was a very fine person and I am sure an excellent Physician.
Terry Tubb M.D. Midland, TX born in Levelland, TX from a pioneer family there.

September 1, 2011

It was my pleasure to be a patient of Dr. Avery for almost 20 years. He was always interested in news of our latest mission trip and provided a caring exam. My condolences to his family and friends

September 1, 2011

My deepest sympathy on your loss. I hope you are receiving much comfort from your friends and family. Though these times are tough, you can receive the most comfort from our heavenly father who is the source of comfort. We don't always have to feel pain and suffer. May our heavenly Father provided needed comfort during these times with you.

Zambrana

September 1, 2011

Dear Avery family,

Maple Avery was my pastor as a very young girl at East Fourth Baptist in Big Spring, Texas. Maple Avery conducted the funeral service for my father, Troy Harrell, who passed away in 1954 in Big Spring. Dr. Avery must have been a very special person, because our family has always remembered him and had a special place in our hearts for him. Reading his obituary, I realize that he continued to allow God to use him throughout his life in many ways, and that he touched many lives for His kingdom. He has left you, the family, a great legacy for all of you to treasure. I praise God for His servant, Maple Avery, a very special person used by God to help so many. It would do us well to follow the godly example he set.

Judy Harrell Carson, Waco, Texas

Karen Ruffner RN

August 31, 2011

Dear Avery family,I worked at Doctors Hospital with Dr. Avery.He was a wonderful Dr.I always thought he seemed like a minister,and now I found out that he really was. God really blessed him with many gifts and he touched many lives.May peace be with all of you,he can never be replaced,but hopefully his kindness was passed on to help others.

Sue & Mike Kersey

August 31, 2011

Dear Iva & Family,
We both have so enjoyed our friendship with you & Maple. What a wonderful man you married and such a loving family you have. I know what a comfort they all are to you now. Maple really had such a way of making all of us feel so loved and speacial and will truly be missed in our lives. And what fun it was at your 60th Wedding Anniversary Party, I was so honored to take picture for you both and the evening was so full of love, good stories, old friends and family. What a wonderful party it was! We send you love & strength, Sue & Mike Kersey

Judy Blair McGee

August 31, 2011

My heart was broken at the loss of Maple Avery who has been my pastor (in Levelland and Abilene), friend and Doctor for so many years. What a blessing to know Maple, Iva, Jan, Graham and Kenda. My consolation is knowing this man of God is walking the streets Heaven and receiving his rewards now. My deepest sympathy and love to the family.

Charles Jones

August 31, 2011

I write to celebrate Maple's life. I met Maple our first year at UTMB as a "brown bagger" that met for lunch in The Old Red book store. We were a small group that became life-long friends. He was my eye doctor and many of my family as well. Dr Avery was the epitome of a physician called out by God and may we all take comfort in the peace that comes from him knowing that we will all meet again. Charles Alvin Jones. MD

Jack Lee

August 31, 2011

Dear Iva Jo and Family:
Was very sorry to hear of Maple's passing. Frances and I thought of both of you many times over the years and the time you served at East Fourth Street Baptist. Maple was a very special person, he was one of a kind a loving thoughtful and cherished friend. As you might recall, Maple married Frances and I and he always held a special place in our hearts. Frances passed away in October, 2007, and she would have been devastated by the loss of Maple. Keep in touch when you have the time.
With my deepest sympathy, always.
Jack Lee

Jay Muenzler

August 31, 2011

My Deepest Sympathy to all.

Geneva Hahn

August 31, 2011

My husband Jack B.Hahn who passed away 9 years ago attended Howard Payne and knew Dr.Avery and then met him again in Conroe Medical Clinic,while he operated on our son- in law (Mike Crowls eyes) such an unusual way of meeting after all the years.My husband thought so much of all the classmates at Howard Payne.The family has our condolences.We also settle here in Burnet county in Oatmeal in 1980.

Miriam Selig

August 31, 2011

Sincere condolences from your long-ago neighbor on Albacore in Galveston. I remember Maple as one of the nicest people I ever knew.

Anita Hvasta

August 31, 2011

I had both the pleasure of working with Dr Avery at the old Conroe Hospital on First St along with being a patient of his. He was such a wonderful person and a very kind and caring physician. He also took such good care of my mother when she needed eye surgery. He will certainly be missed. My condolences to the entire Avery family. May the comfort of God surround you.

Sue Gordon Johnson

August 30, 2011

Dear Iva and family,

My heart is so saddened with the loss of Maple, a friend of such integrity, dignity and profound kindness. Bob and I enjoyed so many wonderful visits with you all and he always told me that Maple was the best friend he ever had. So many years have gone by and I have many fond memories of our friendship. May God be with you and comfort you and your family as you seek strength of endurance of this grief.

Jim Pokorski

August 30, 2011

To His Family and Friends,
Dr. Avery is a very unique man who exceeded the expectations of many--for he is very very special for all! May peace be with you......

Linda Carraway

August 30, 2011

I remember Dr. Avery from Doctors Hospital in Conroe. He was one of the kindest Dr.'s I had the priviledge to work around. May God give his family the peace that passes all understanding.

August 30, 2011

I first met Dr. Avery when he was referred to me by my 1 year old son's Pediatrician. He told me that Dr. Avery was the best eye doctor that he knew and because I trusted the Pediatrician, I trusted that he was sending me to the right person. He did! Dr. Avery was such a soft spoken and easy going person. I immediately felt comfortable in knowing that I had been sent to the right place. My son ended up being transferred to a Specialist at Texas Children's Hospital for eye surgery but Dr. Avery continued to be his regular eye doctor until we moved to San Antonio Texas. I give my condolences to his family. I know you will miss him, but he is at peace now. May his memories last a lifetime. God bless you all. Karen

Barbara Sadowsky

August 30, 2011

Dear Kenda and family, I am deeply saddened at your loss. Please find comfort in happy memories.

August 29, 2011

Dear Avery family,
I read with sadness of the passing of your sweet husband, dad and grandfather. I hope it will bring you comfort for me to share a story of kindness he brought to our family.
About 21 or 22 years ago, my sweet little boy got a really bad eye infection. We had to leave worship services on Sunday morning to seek medical attention. Dr. Avery not only agreed to meet us at his clinic in Conroe (it was Sunday morning!!), he did not even charge us for the visit! We so appreciated his professionalism and compassion toward us.
That "little boy" is now 23 and serving in the US armed forces. I wish Dr. Avery could have known.
Please accept our condolences and appreciation for this wonderful act of generosity.
Sincerely,
The Hudson family from Willis, TX

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