Mark Edmond Maynard I was born in Seymour, Indiana, on Sunday, Jan. 5, 1947, to Charles R. and Leota (Pierce) Maynard. He entered into the presence of the Lord on Monday, Feb.10, in Springfield at the age of 78. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” Mark lived his life with unwavering faith, always putting God first.
Mark met the love of his life, Joy Ann Nicholson, at Central Assembly of God’s youth group. He knew she was “the one,” and they were married in Springfield, Missouri, on May 23, 1970. Together, they built a loving home, raising two children, and their legacy continues to grow.
Mark earned a degree in elementary education from Evangel University before serving briefly in the U.S. Army. He later pursued a master’s in criminal justice, leading him to teach at Drury University and serve as deputy sheriff of Greene County. Never one to stop learning, he earned a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Arkansas and later completed coursework for a marketing degree.
His career was dedicated to both education and service. He was the Director of Security at Oral Roberts University, where he later became a Marketing professor in the business department. In 2007, Mark returned to his alma mater, Evangel University, to teach Business, a role he held until his retirement. As a Professor Emeritus, he continued serving his community – teaching Sunday school, serving on the board of Teen Challenge and acting as president of the Weller Neighborhood Association.
Mark’s greatest joy was his family. He deeply loved his wife, Joy, who preceded him in death in January 2007. His legacy lives on through those who cherish his memory:
Children:
Heather Braucher and husband Ronnie of Claremore, Oklahoma
Mark Maynard II and wife Jennifer of Tulsa, Oklahoma
Grandchildren:
Heidi Braucher, Riley Braucher, Audrey Braucher, Brodie Braucher, Niyla Maynard, Makayla Maynard, and Nehemiah Maynard
Mark was also preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Leota Maynard.
He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and servant of the Lord. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith will be remembered by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Joy Nicholson Maynard Scholarship at Evangel University: https://www.evangel.edu/advancement/
In the “Designation” field enter the name of the endowment: E37232 Joy Nicholson Maynard Endowment