Thelma Jean Maynard (nee Brown-McElroy) died on April 17, 2023, in Smithfield, NC, after suffering a stroke.

Born in Twin Falls, Idaho on May 24, 1942, she was the beloved daughter of Laura Bell and Boyd Brown. Thelma graduated from UNC Wilmington and later went on to receive Master's degrees in Reading and Library Science. She moved several times throughout her life, living in KS, TX, CT, and Israel. She lived most of her adult life in North Carolina.  She enjoyed music, sewing, art, crafting, and pottery.

Predeceased by Calvin Maynard, her parents, and her brother, Ralph Brown (Betty). Thelma Jean is survived by her sister June Matheson (Mike) of Colorado, and brother David Brown (Judy) of Twin Falls.

Sons, Tim McElroy (Lynn) of Horshoe, NC, Steve McElroy (Lori) of Smithfield, NC, and daughter, Shawna Smith (Paul) of Watertown, NY. ; grandchildren  Ben McElroy of Raleigh, NC and Josh McElroy (Sarah) of Sanford, NC, Zack McElroy of SC, Meaghan McElroy of Greensboro, NC, Jonathan Smith of Watertown, NY, Daniel Smith of AL, Anna and Caleb Smith of Watertown, NY; 3 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service to celebrate Thelma Jean's life will be held at Centenary United Methodist Church on Wednesday, April 19 at  11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to the National Alliance on Mental Illness  (NAMI) PO Box 12562, Raleigh, NC 27605.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.parrishfh.com.