IN A world where the winds of change often test relationships, Herbert and Carole Maynard’s relationship is a testament to enduring love and unwavering commitment. Sixty-five years of marriage is no small feat. As the Maynards reflect on the journey that has brought and kept them together, it becomes evident that their love story is extraordinary.
As a young man, Herbert had a clear vision of his future — a roadmap to success and a predetermined path to marriage. However, life took an unexpected turn when he had a spiritual awakening that reshaped his perspective. Suddenly, Herbert was no longer making decisions in isolation; he had divine guidance.
While in the Navy, Herbert’s family moved to Florida, and after leaving the military, he would follow them there. In the halls of the 5th Avenue Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida, his lifelong passion for music became the bridge that connected him with a young lady named Carole. Little did he know, she was the one with whom he would build a love, family, and home for the rest of his life.
Reflecting on those early days, Carole recalls being captivated by Herbert’s sophistication and worldly experiences. United by their shared love for music, they embarked on a journey of double dates and group activities like roller skating and drive-in movies. Eventually, their connection deepened into single dates, laying the foundation for a love that would withstand the test of time.
Their love endured a year of separation when Herbert attended Wingate University in North Carolina, but the distance only strengthened their bond. The love letters they exchanged daily during this separation became a cherished testimony of their commitment and would be read by their daughter at a heartwarming celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary. Eventually, they would attend Carson Newman University together, in what Carole recalls as a different era when dorm mothers frowned on hand-holding.
After they were engaged, married, and had two daughters, Herbert was called to his first full-time church position in South Miami, Florida, where they would welcome their third daughter. Carole remembers being thrilled because their whole family was in Florida.
1965 had took a significant turn when Herbert was called to serve in the West Lynchburg Baptist Church in Virginia. The move was bittersweet for Carole, and she recalls leaving Miami for Lynchburg; “I put my brakes on [during] the whole trip because I didn’t want to leave the family. As God would have it, I wouldn’t go back and change a thing.”
Carole would go on to become an integral member of the church in the Women’s Ministry’s activities, where both she and Herbert are still active members.
Herbert said they love the people and the church when asked what they appreciate about Lynchburg.
“We absolutely love Lynchburg,” he said. “Lynchburg is a comfort town. It’s not so busy that people don’t have time for one another. People are friendly, and we have enjoyed every bit of it. We have raised our girls here, and they have enjoyed the social atmosphere of a city that is just a good place to live. We can’t complain about anything. People are loving, caring, and friendly. Our church is the hub of everything.” Both Herbert and Carole expressed their deep appreciation for Lynchburg, citing the friendly people, their welcoming church, and a sense of community, making it a comforting haven.
When asked about the glue that has held their marriage together for 65 years, Herbert and Carole emphatically attribute it to their relationship with the Lord. Their faith is not merely a facet of their lives; it is the anchor that has weathered challenges and has provided unwavering stability.
Carole said, “We don’t want to romanticize a real-life story. Every couple goes through hard times. Divorce was not an option for us because we trusted God to put us together, and we trust him each day. God is the anchor.”
The Maynards’ love story is one of devotion, commitment, and faith. Their beautiful family and profound connection to the Lynchburg community testify to the power of enduring love. In a world that often seems chaotic and unpredictable, their 65-year marriage symbolizes hope, reminding us all that love, faith, and community connection can withstand the test of time. GN
