Launer (Lonni) Maynes

Launer (Lonni) Mae Doan Maynes of St. George, Utah, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2022.  She was born May 31, 1933, in Alameda, California.  Her parents are LeRoy William Doan and Florence Agnes Enos Doan.  Lonni lived in Redding, California, much of her life and became a full-time resident of St. George, Utah, when she and her husband, Don, moved to The Legacy in 1997.

Lonni’s childhood was idyllic roaming the hills and fishing in Hat Creek where her parents owned a resort.  Being outdoors and surrounded by animals brought her joy throughout her childhood.  Much of Lonni’s formal education was in Redding, California, and she attended a Catholic high school during the school year, returning to Hat Creek for the summer months.  She loved music and developed vocal skills, as well as talent for the piano, organ and accordion.

Lonni married Newell Pelton, and together they ran a logging business in northern California.  They were blessed with two children, Patricia and Gary.  During non- logging months,  Lonni worked  as a teller in a local bank, and as the marriage ended, she supported her children as a single mother.  Summer months found Gary and Patricia at Hat Creek where they could enjoy much of what Lonni experienced as a child.  Her children were her greatest concern and treasure, and they became very successful in their careers and lives.

Nature was always a spiritual experience, and Lonni loved America and its beauty and miracles of creation.  A trip to Salt Lake City with a friend was a life-changing event when Lonni was introduced to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  From then forward she grew to love the Lord and understood His Plan of Salvation.  It led to her baptism and eventual sealing with Alfred Donald Maynes on July 26, 1983, following their marriage in August 1974.  Embracing Don’s family after their marriage brought additional step-children and grandchildren to love:  Cheryl VanBuskirk and children Matt, Jeff, Rory, Nicole, Jared, and Noelle; Pam Jensen and children Samantha, Emily, and Joshua;  Scott (Stephanie) Maynes and children Steven, Michael, Nicholas, and Matthew;  Jan (Ron) Ulberg and children Elsha, Cessalea, Caleb, Christian, and Marthea; , Nancy (Paul) Jones and children Bailey, Glen, Paul (PJ); Karen (Laell) Jones and children Kate, Jacob, Jordan, and Taylor; and Todd (Susan) Maynes and children Virginia, Spencer, and Grant.  Even until her passing, some were checking in on Grandma.  How she loved hearing from them!

Don and Lonni built a very successful real estate business in Redding, California, which Gary later continued with Nena.  Together they loved all things travel, and many friends share tales of their road and motorhome trips.  Many Church callings – including a service mission with Don – brought her friends wherever she went.  And shopping -- how she loved to shop!  Most important to her, however, were family and friends, near and far, and staying connected.

Lonni is survived by her daughter, Patricia Pelton, and Daughter-in-law, Nena Pelton, along with the extended Maynes family.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Don (2003), parents LeRoy and Florence, son Gary (2013), and grandsons Michael and Christian.

When Lonni needed to have more support, she left her home in The Legacy and moved to Beehive Cottages on Tonaquint.  There she found "family"  not only in friendships among the residents but in Beehive's amazing staff.  She once again enjoyed activities and excursions and was in a safe, warm, happy environment.  She loved Beehive and all it stood for and tried to convince many to join her there!  Prior to leaving, Beehive staff served her personally above and beyond with compassion and love.  In May 2022 as her health declined and living independently was no longer in her best interest, Lonni chose to move to The Retreat at Sunbrook Assisted Living.  New-found friendships and staff added enjoyment to her life.  They, along with Dixie Hospice, similarly cared for Lonni with grace, kindness and compassion in her final weeks.

Lonni has requested a graveside service only on Monday, June 27, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at Tonaquint Cemetery which is open to everyone.  There will be a gathering afterward for family and friends at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel on 1068 Chandler Drive, St. George, Utah.

Arrangements are made under the direction of McMillan Mortuary, 499 East Tabernacle, St. George, UT, 435-688-8880.   Family and friends are invited to sign her online guest book at mcmillanmortuary.com,