Maynard Gearhart

Maynard T. Gearhart, 90, of Zellwood, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, at the Frank and Helen Descipio Hospice House in Tavares, Florida. Maynard was born in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, to James F. and Rachel Gearhart on December 14, 1934. He graduated from Williamsport High School in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and proudly served in the U.S. Army stationed in Berlin during the early 1950s. Following his military service, he worked as an Inventory Manager at Bastian Tire Sales in Williamsport for over 30 years, where he was a deeply valued employee. He was also an active member of the local Republican League and the VFW. Maynard was predeceased by his beloved wife, Lois Gearhart, on January 28, 2016, as well as his four stepchildren and four brothers. He was especially close to his younger brother, John E. Gearhart, with whom he shared three cherished years in Florida before John's passing in 2025. He is survived by his daughter, Brenda Gearhart of Zellwood, Florida; 11 grandchildren (one deceased); 22 great-grandchildren (three deceased); and six great-great-grandchildren. An active, hands-on father and grandfather, Maynard was well known for his dry sense of humor, his generosity, and his extraordinary ability to remain calm in any situation. He instilled strong values in his family: work hard, do your best, and always show up for the people you love. For the last 12 years of his life, Maynard lived with his daughter, Brenda, who thoroughly treasured his company, humor, and steadiness. Together, they spent many quiet hours reading Westerns and watching classic Western TV shows. Throughout his life, Maynard was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping and fishing. Every year, he and his brothers spent a week fishing at a cabin in Pennsylvania or New York, each lightheartedly boasting that they would catch the biggest fish of the trip. His true passion, however, was woodcarving—a hobby that consumed his free time for more than 40 years. He was widely recognized for his intricately detailed Old World Santas, birds, and ducks. For 30 years, every child and grandchild received one of his hand-carved creations each Christmas. Maynard loved showcasing his artistry at carving shows and actively participated in local woodcarving clubs wherever he lived, most recently as a member of the Lake Woodcarvers in Florida. A graveside service will be held on September 26 at 2:00 PM at Twin Hills Village Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Duboistown Fire Hall in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Maynard Gearhart

December 14, 1935 - August 4, 2026