Maynard K. Piper

Maynard Keith Piper, 95, passed away on January 26, 2026. Maynard was born to Fred George and Francis May Dore Piper on August 11, 1930, in Harmony, Maine and later moved to and lived in Readfield Maine until the age of 17. At 17 he joined the Army with the idea of seeing the world and heading to a warmer climate, only to be sent to Alaska for his first tour of duty. Maynard developed a fondness for Alaska and would return multiple times later in life. Maynard proudly served his country for 23 years in the United States Army, completing tours in both Korea and Viet Nam and living in France, Germany, and nine additional stateside assignments. While stationed in Paris, he met Carolyn Lester, who was serving in the Women’s Army Corps and would become his wife of 62 years. Their time in Paris sparked a lifelong affection for the city and its people. Maynard retired with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer, a reflection of his dedication, discipline, and deep sense of duty. Following his military service, he continued to lead a meaningful and productive life through several successful civilian roles, bringing the same commitment and integrity to every endeavor. Maynard lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and an unwavering belief in looking forward rather than dwelling on the past. His steady optimism and warm spirit shaped the lives of all who knew him. One of Maynard’s greatest passions was fishing, a love he passed on to his three young boys. He spent a lifetime sharing this passion with them, creating countless memories on the water and teaching them not just how to fish, but how to appreciate the quiet moments, the patience, and the joy that came with it. Those days together became some of the most treasured parts of his life and theirs. Service to others remained central to who he was. For many years, Maynard volunteered with the Sweetwater Mission Food Bank, offering his time, energy, and compassion to support his community. His presence there became a steady source of comfort and reliability for countless individuals and families. Maynard was preceded in death by his wife Carolyn, his siblings Verna, Vivian, Anna, Clenda, Harriet, Carolyn, Ormand, Granville, his daughter-in-law Barbara, and his granddaughter Emily. He is survived by his sisters Eleanor Brown, June Piper, his brothers Rick Piper and Lewis Piper along with his three sons, Don and wife Jackie, Dan and wife Catherine, Steve and wife Ann, along with 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Maynard will be remembered with deep affection for the life he lived—one marked by service, compassion, and a forward-looking spirit that inspired everyone around him. A graveside memorial service will be held in Powder Springs on Friday, February 6th, for the family.