Maynard Eaton, the Man, the Myth, the Legend, Laid to Rest in A Robust Memorial Service
At Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church
Back in the days when Jim Crow and de facto segregation ruled the land, a baby named Maynard Eaton was born. He grew into manhood reading newspapers on his morning paper route. He played football and baseball. He was affectionately known by the neighborhood kids of Orange, New Jersey, as “Jelly.”
This speck of life, born in the middle of the 20th century, grew into a man with a broad infectious smile. He spoke with a rustic baritone voice, and although he did not wear a cane and derby hat, he was an impeccable dresser, an undisputed legend in his own time.
Maynard Eaton was the epitome of a “Man in Full,” the quintessential “every man.” He represented the perfect example of human existence in all its fragilities. While Eaton did not wear his religion on his sleeves, he kept in close contact with the leading pastors of Atlanta, talking with them daily. He could pick up the telephone and get Rev. Darryl Winston, Rev. Jasper Williams, or Rev. Dr. Gerald Durley on the phone. They talked to Eaton about their projects, hopes, and dreams for a better Atlanta and the world while fulfilling Eaton’s spiritual needs.
Eaton, like this writer, and others, failed often. Each time he had a setback, he…
