Charity Marie Avery Maynard

Charity Marie Avery Maynard, known affectionately as "Sissy" by her parents, siblings, and many nieces and nephews, entered into heaven on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the age of 73. Born on September 4, 1952, in Morehead City, North Carolina, to the late Norman Avery and Beatrice Elizabeth Wilson Avery, she was a hard-working individual whose life was a testament to service, dedication, and love.

Growing up as the daughter of farmers, Sissy worked alongside her siblings in the tobacco fields. Her industrious nature led her to work in a sewing factory, where she honed her skills, making her own clothing and that of her children. Her talent for sewing became a cherished aspect of her family life.

Charity spent the majority of her career as a property manager for low-income housing. Her commitment to her community was evident when she established a "Reading Room" at one of the properties, providing a haven for children to read and watch movies after school, complete with popcorn she lovingly prepared.

Family was at the heart of Charity's life, and she was known for her Sunday dinners and unforgettable birthday parties for her children. Board games like Scrabble and Uno were a family tradition at their gatherings. Her creativity shone in the costumes and clothing she meticulously crafted for her children, making every holiday and school play special.

A lover of reading, Charity cherished the works of Stephen King and had a small library at home. Her southern cooking was renowned, and she enjoyed good food, walks, and collecting seashells at the beach, despite not knowing how to swim. She had an eye for interior decorating and traveled to beautiful places like Italy and Hawaii.

Charity’s strong faith and sense of humor, combined with her ability to go all out for anyone and anything, left a lasting impression on her family and all who knew her. She was always well-dressed and put together, embodying a sense of grace and style.

Left to cherish her memory and continue in her legacy are her beloved husband of 15 years, Charles Maynard; her children Wendy Ransier and her husband Michael Yezarski, Brandi Golojuch and her husband Roberto Velasquez, and Sabrina Sadler; and her grandchildren Briana Ransier, Kayla Savage, Madison Golojuch, Garret Golojuch, and Carson Williamson. She is also survived by her siblings Buddy, Samuel, Pete, and Mark; many nieces and nephews; and her cherished fur baby, Gigi.

In addition to her parents she is predeceased by her daughter Leia Lewis, and siblings Bett, Nancy, Louise, and Ronnie.

Memorial donations can be made in Charity's honor to CarolinaEast Cancer Center's Foundation by visiting; https://www.carolinaeasthealth.com/foundation/donate-now/.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Cotten Funeral Home, located at 2201 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, North Carolina, 28560. Come as you are and feel free to wear a color that reminds you of Charity.

Charity’s legacy of love, warmth, and family will be remembered always.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Charity Marie Avery Maynard.