Leilah

Maynard

Atha Leilah Maynard, 93, passed away on December 26, 2016, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, her home away from home for the past 12 years, but her heart was in Oklahoma City where she spent most of her life. She was born in Scranton, Arkansas on January 7, 1923, to Harold Adron Johnson and Sular Marie (Ashmore) Johnson. Leilah was married to the late Rev. Lester Maynard after meeting him at a gospel singing concert. They were married for more than 58 years. Gospel music continued to be a major influence on her the rest of her life. She was proud to be a member of the Maynard Singers trio, traveling to churches throughout Oklahoma and Arkansas to sing whenever there was an opportunity. With no formal music education, she taught herself how to play the piano.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a brother, Harold Johnson.

Leilah is survived by her three children: Veta Melvin, and husband, Dallas, of Fort Smith, Arkansas; Forrest Maynard and wife, Donna, of Fairview, Texas; and James Maynard and wife, Donita, of Oklahoma City; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and many other loved ones and friends.

The family wishes to recognize all the caregivers who assisted Leilah in the final years of her life. There were many who were a great comfort to her.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, December 30, 2016, at the Eisenhour Funeral Home Chapel in Blanchard. Burial will follow in the Blanchard Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Eisenhour Funeral Home of Blanchard. Online obituary and guestbook are available at www.eisenhourfh.com.