Thelma Maynard began her life’s journey in Uitflught, Guyana, on November 28, 1932. She was the only daughter among three sons born to the late Irene Elcock and Orlando Maynard.
During Thelma’s formative years, schooling was under the tutelage of an aunt who was known throughout the community as “Teacher Phyllis.” Thelma grew up with a close-knit extended family, spending many weekends and holidays across town in De Willem with her beloved Auntie Pearlie and nine cousins.
Thelma was characterized by her siblings and relatives as the “pioneer”; one who charted untested territory for the rest of the family to follow. At an age when young minds are still forming, Thelma exhibited maturity beyond her years and made the decision with the approval of her parents to emigrate to England. It was a bold move for a lady in her early twenties who, not only would have to navigate a new culture overseas by herself, but would have responsibility for her youngest brother whom she requested to go along as a companion. The relocation was successful and, eventually, with her encouragement, Thelma’s mother, remaining brothers, and a few cousins followed.
It was in the U.K. that Thelma’s career in business got started. She worked as a typist for Clover Investment Company and was able to secure employment for newly arriving relatives too. The move proved to be strategic, not only professionally, but personally as well. While residing in London, Thelma met Rupert Phayme whom she married in 1956; and started to raise a family.
Always searching for new opportunities, Thelma headed for the United States in 1967 leaving behind her husband and children so that she could “spy out the land.” Indeed, the possibilities seemed endless and Thelma returned to London after several months and made plans for the family to relocate to America the next year. Respected for her foresight, relatives not long afterwards took Thelma’s lead again and made the trek across The Pond.
Thelma’s middle years were spent entirely in New York where she worked initially as a key punch operator at Kenyon & Eckhardt and for Union Carbide. She subsequently advanced to accounting positions at The Metropolitan Opera, Jet Air Freight, and Sky Chef.
Thelma’s determination was not just to get ahead in industry but to grow in faith at a Bible-teaching church. The Lord directed her to Bethel Gospel Tabernacle under the leadership of its founder, Bishop Roderick Caesar, Sr. There, she found a place in ministry working with the evangelists; and as a bookkeeper at the BGT Federal Credit Union. She attended Bethel’s 6am Prayer meeting and continued the practice at home by leading her children in daily family devotions.
For Thelma, the only constant in life was change. She envisioned spending retirement in a warmer climate than the Northeast. So, in 1989, Thelma and Rupert packed their belongings yet again; this time heading to Ocala, Florida. Not one to be idle though, Thelma became the unofficial head of the department of commerce for Marion Oaks. She gave of her time generously, showing would-be-transplants the lay of the land, literally and figuratively. This was also the season that Thelma enjoyed the fruits of her labor. She and Rupert traveled to Jamaica and Trinidad. Together, they also established new friendships and cruised to St. Thomas, Grenada, and the Panama Canal to name a few. Thelma made one final transition; on September 2, 2024. On this occasion.
She was preceded by others; her parents, Irene and Orlando; her brothers, Cecil, Vibert, and Michael.
Thelma leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, Rupert, of 68 years; their children, Rupert Jr. (Karma), Vaulda, Colin (Theresa), Dawn (Harry), Alistair (Daniela), and Kevin (Stephanie); their grandchildren, Michael, Sharon, Pamela (Rael), Ashley, Candace, Amanda (Joseph), Richard (Jessica), Mitao, Gabrielle, Jillian, and Jamie; six great grandchildren; two great, great grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Beulah, Barbara, and Margaret; nieces Karen and Nichola; nephews Andrew and Philip; a dear friend Everlene whom she affectionately called “the sister I never had”; and a host of relatives and friends.