William R. Maynor

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of William (Bill) Roosevelt Maynor, formerly of Forest Park, Illinois, recently residing in Crystal Lake. He is remembered as a beloved husband, devoted father, cherished pawpaw, and treasured great-grandfather, on May 9, 2025, at the age of 87. 

Born on April 5, 1938, in Roadbranch, West Virginia, William was the son of the late Margaret Kennedy and William Burtie Maynor. 

William was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Florence Maynor Blankenship, with whom he shared love, partnership, and laughter. He was also preceded in death by his son, William Roosevelt Maynor Jr., brothers Uliss Maynor (Charlotte), Floyd Maynor, and David Maynor; and his sisters Retha Maynor Vance and Nellie Maynor.

He is lovingly remembered by his surviving siblings: brothers Buren Maynor (Linda) of Verner, West Virginia, and Elvis John Walker of Roadbranch, Virginia and sister Christine Tammy Maynor of Roadbranch, West Virginia. 

William’s legacy lives on in his daughters: Regina Torian (Garbis), Sherry Grigsby (Scott), and Melissa Michor (Mike), who will forever carry his wisdom, strength, and love in their hearts. He was a proud and joyful grandfather to Crystal Osadzinski (Edward), Anthony Torian (Luciek), Christopher Torian, Tess Grigsby, Scott Grigsby Jr., Edwin Valentin III, Sebastian Valentin, Isabella Valentin, and Mason Michor. His eyes would light up at the mention of his great-grandchildren Olivia Osadzinski, Nicholas Osadzinski, and Gabrielle Torian, each of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy. He was blessed to have an abundance of nieces, nephews and extended family as well. 

William had an extensive career at M&M/Mars spanning over 20 years. He enjoyed sharing his chocolate creations with friends and family, especially during Christmas while dressed as Santa and while traveling home to West Virginia to vacation with his family. Towards the end of his career with M&M/Mars, he opened his catering truck, Bill’s Catering. He enjoyed serving individuals across northern Chicago, as well sharing his treats with his beloved daughters and grandchildren. 

To know William was to know kindness, humility, and the gentle strength of a man who put his family above all else. Whether sitting in the garage with a story to tell or offering a helping hand without being asked, he gave of himself fully and quietly, never seeking praise. His warmth, humor, and unwavering presence will be missed beyond measure. He enjoyed gardening, listening to the news, tending to flowers and caring for his family. 

William Roosevelt Maynor leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering family devotion. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be remembered and celebrated. Services will be held on May 15, 2025 from 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. at Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home: 7319 Madison Street, Forest Park, Illinois 60130. Immediately following at 12:30 p.m. a procession will take place to Forest Home Cemetery: 863 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park, Illinois 60130. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

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