Maynard Nisly's Obituary
Maynard Nisly passed peacefully at home on June 2, 2022, the day before his birthday, at the age of 75, in the presence of his family. Maynard was born June 3, 1947, in Hutchinson, Kansas to Eli and Alma Nisly. He is preceded in death by his parents and four of his siblings.
Maynard met Ruth Shirk in 1967 when they were in the bridal party at the wedding of his brother Marvin and Ruth's best friend, Fern. Maynard and Ruth were married June 15, 1968, in Greenwood, DE. After living briefly in Ohio, then Tallahassee, FL, they returned to Greenwood, DE in 1971. Their final move was to Bridgeville, DE in 1980.
Maynard grew up in a large, loving family. He was proud to be number 13 of the 15 Nisly siblings. Family reunions were always a delight and full of joy. Memories were shared, laughter was ever present, competitive sports and games happened, and family sing-a-longs and talent shows were highlights. He and Ruth raised their three children Tina (Brent) Timmons, Marla (Jeff) Gray, and Wendell Nisly, and eventually welcomed 8 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter. Maynard enjoyed making fun memories with his children and then grandchildren.
From an early age Maynard had a unique way of looking at life and solving practical problems. Many stories of Maynard's childhood involve him working to make chores on the farm easier by inventing another way to do something. Of course, those chores were not actually completed until the invention was developed. Problem solving and thinking outside the box continued throughout his life.
Maynard worked in various forms of building throughout most of his career. After moving to Delaware, John Mervine of Nanticoke Homes hired him to work at his new house building factory. Maynard soon was promoted to the position of Plant Manager. He helped design the new factories after the original was destroyed in a fire. He managed the plants until 1984. He then had his own carpentry business for about 6 years. Maynard was well known for his craftsmanship, and attention to detail. His next endeavor was precision building of elaborate European style wooden windows and doors at Dover Millwork. This work was perfect for his attention to detail, and love of woodworking. Mr. Yoder allowed Maynard to use scrap exotic woods, and company machinery on his own time, to create elaborate toys for his grandchildren, and family. His dream was to retire and build toys full time.
Maynard had a hunger for Jesus that led him many places throughout his life. His parents first introduced him to faith in Jesus, and he faithfully followed no matter what life brought his way. In May 1966, Maynard honored his non-violent beliefs towards war, registered as a conscientious objector, and signed up for 1-W alternative service. He spent 2 years volunteering at Rush Memorial Hospital, in Meridian, Mississippi, learning to care for the ill and injured. He continued to serve the Lord throughout his life. Maynard served as an Elder at Family Ministries for about 15 years which included multiple trips to preach in Mexico, at Living Water Church for about 10 years, and attended Crossroad Community Church for the remaining years.
Maynard is remembered as a loving, gentle man, and will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held Friday, June 24, 2022, at Crossroad Community Church, 20684 State Forest Road, Georgetown, DE 19947. Visitation will start at 10:00 a.m., and the service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be private.
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