Yvonne Jacqueline Maynard Kasper, a beloved pillar of the Kinston, North Carolina community, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Honey’s Assisted Living at the age of 88. Her departure marks the end of a life richly lived—marked by devotion to family, faith, community service, and unwavering kindness.
Born on July 27, 1936, in Ethel, West Virginia, Yvonne was the cherished daughter of the late Paul and Elsie Maynard. She graduated from Logan High School in 1954, and shortly thereafter answered a higher calling by enlisting in the Women’s Army Corps. Training at Fort McClellan, Alabama, Yvonne completed the clerical procedures and typing course in January 1955, and was stationed at Detachment #2, the U.S. Army Hospital at West Point, New York. Her honorable discharge in 1956 marked the conclusion of her military service but the beginning of a lifelong journey of commitment and service to others.
While stationed at West Point, fate brought her together with Andrew Kasper, who would become her husband and life partner. Their marriage on June 2, 1955, would span 70 years of shared joys, challenges, and unwavering support. Their daughter, Debra Ann, was born in 1959 in Independence, Missouri, and the family later moved to Kinston, North Carolina in 1972.
Yvonne’s career journey was as dedicated as her personal life. She worked at the Kansas City Teaching Hospital before relocating to Kinston. There, she served as the Administrative Assistant to the President of Walker of North Carolina, providing invaluable support until the company’s sale. She later retired from the North Carolina Global Transpark in 2001. Yet, retirement did not slow Yvonne down—she continued to give generously of her time, embodying the spirit of volunteerism and community involvement.
As a proud “Pink Lady” volunteer at Lenoir Memorial Hospital, Yvonne comforted and cared for patients, while also crafting over 40 sock monkeys each month to bring joy and companionship to children undergoing surgery. This selfless act of kindness was just one example of her deep compassion and dedication to the well-being of others.
Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Yvonne was an active and faithful member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, where she served on the parish board and taught religious education classes to both teens and adults. She was a woman of strong conviction, whose spiritual guidance touched countless lives in her community.
Beyond faith and family, Yvonne embraced life’s passions with vigor. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi since 1984 and actively participated in the Pilot International Club of Kinston. Notably, she played a critical role in founding the Anchor Club at Kinston High School, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing leadership and community involvement in younger generations.
Yvonne was also an accomplished marksman, holding the title of Tri-State Women’s champion with the Grand River Muzzleloaders Club. Her skills were not merely for sport—they became tools for empowerment and education as she volunteered alongside Lt. Potter of the Kinston Police Department to teach gun safety and marksmanship to women, promoting confidence and responsible firearm use.
She treasured quiet moments, finding peace in reading, gardening, and playing bridge with friends—activities that reflected her love for learning, nature, and social connection.
Yvonne was predeceased by her parents and three brothers—Donald, David Lee, and Darryl Maynard—each of whom served honorably in the military, a testament to the family’s dedication to service.
She leaves behind her loving husband, Andrew Kasper; her daughter Debra and husband Mike of Williamston; sister Charlotte Stovall of Monroe, Georgia; grandson John Andrew Hardison of Williamston; step-grandson Michael Hardison of Cherokee, North Carolina; and cherished great-granddaughters Arabella and Elaina. The bonds she nurtured with her family were a testament to her role as matriarch and source of unwavering love and strength.
Yvonne’s legacy is defined by her generous spirit, tireless service, and deep faith. She lived each day with grace, compassion, and a commitment to bettering the lives of those around her. Her impact on the Kinston community and beyond is enduring, woven into the fabric of countless lives she touched.
A graveside service to celebrate Yvonne Jacqueline Maynard Kasper’s life will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, located at 164 Longs Plant Farm Road, Goldsboro, North Carolina.
In keeping with her wishes, memorial contributions can be made to the Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 400 Academy Heights Road, Kinston, NC 28504, to honor her faith and commitment to the church community.
Yvonne’s life was a beautiful tapestry of dedication, love, and faith—an inspiration to all who had the privilege to know her. Her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family, friends, and community for generations to come.
May she rest in eternal peace, forever cherished and deeply missed.
