William MAYNARD

MAYNARD, William 7/28/1949 - 6/23/2017  Bill passed away unexpectedly on June 23, 2017. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Deo, and sister, Fay Maynard.  His godsons, Justin (Nicole) and Jarrett (Christina) Berry as well as his grandchildren, Talena, Austin (AJ), Mikayla, and Matthew and many close friends who have become family. Bill was born in Burnside, Kentucky and moved to Tucson in the 3rd grade.  He graduated from Sunnyside High School in 1967 and was named to both all city and all state teams in football resulting in a two year football scholarship to Arizona Western College in Yuma. He then received a full football scholarship to Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois and while there, he was again named to the All Star Football Team. Bill met the love of his life, Deo, during his junior year at WIU. He graduated with a B.S. in Education in May 1972, and he and Deo were married August 11, 1972. Bill was looking forward to his 50th class reunion this October.  Bill made a career teaching in the Sunnyside School District and taught 4th, 5th and 6th grade at Craycroft Elementary and 7th and 8th grade Math at Sierra Middle School. In 1980, Bill earned a Masters in Education at the University of Arizona and twice was awarded Middle Level Educator of the Year in 1999 and 2003. He spent his last several years as an advisor at Sierra and retired from Sunnyside after 30 years as a beloved teacher and friend to all he encountered.  Although he was often referred to as Little Bill, there was nothing little about him. Bill was an original, and his intelligence and quick mind always made for interesting conversation while his sense of humor and cutting wit could always make you laugh. If you were a guest to his home, he always made you feel welcome; from a bear hug upon arrival, to his fantastic meals and generosity as a host, to walking you to your car upon departure, Bill made you feel like family.  He could fix anything and was always willing to lend a hand and help someone out. Bill was well known for his daily phone contact to many of his friends, who will miss their daily conversation with their good friend. Bill spent a lot of his time riding his Harley and reading. He could play most any instrument by ear although his favorites were the banjo and guitar;  you knew it was a good night when he brought those out. He also loved cooking and made it look so easy. If you were treated to a Bill creation, you always left full and happy.   But most of all Bill loved Deo, and they were blessed to spend the last 44 years traveling, laughing, and loving each other. He was so much to so many; husband, father, Tata, teacher, mentor and friend. He passed way too soon and will be missed by all.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity. A private Celebration of Bill's Life was held, with everyone sharing their "Bill Stories."  Arrangements by ANGEL VALLEY FUNERAL HOME.