Obituary: Maynard E. Keadle, First Perry Hall High School Principal (Updated)

UPDATED (1:16 p.m.)—He was the original Gator. 

The first principal to preside over Perry Hall High School Maynard Keadle, 84, passed away Tuesday.

"I was saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Keadle, the first principal of Perry Hall High School and a towering figure in the history of our alma mater," County Councilman David Marks (Class of '91) said. "I met Dr. Keadle in 2008 when we created the Perry Hall High School Alumni Association.  Dr. Keadle laid the groundwork for the wonderful, proud place that has become Perry Hall High School nearly 50 years later."

Keadle graduated from Towson State Teachers College in 1951—the same year he began teaching at Stemmers Run Junior High. 

He went on to work for the Board of Education in Safety and Transportation and served as assistant vice principal and principal of Golden Ring Junior High between 1955 and 1963. 

Keadle spent from 1963 to 1970 building the reputation of Perry Hall's high school. Marks said that in 1971, the school was "so respected" that it was selected to host the National Association of Student Councils, thanks in no small part to Keadle's work. 

The Perry Hall chapter of the National Honors Society was also named in Keadle's honor. 

Over the course of his career, Keadle would go on to become principal of Dulaney High School in Timonium where he worked for 20 years. Cockeysville is where is lived out his final days. 

"As principal at Perry Hall High School and Dulaney High School he always put the students first," Michael Keadle, Maynard's son said. "When I was freshman at Dulaney there was not a lot of respect shown by the students toward the administration.

"Knowing my Dad was coming to Dulaney was a cause for concern," Michael continued. "It really took no time at all before he was accepted, respected and loved. If a student, teacher or parent had a request he would make it happen. In his words, 'If it makes sense lets do it.' Many times this meant going against current policy and his superiors, which he did on many occasions."

He retired in 1989. 

"What I will miss most about my Dad was his smile and infectious personality, his positive approach toward people, be it friends or colleagues," Michael continued. "If he had a goal in mind, he could motivate a team and get things done."

His visitation and funeral will be held Friday and Saturday, according to his obituary by Lemmon Funeral Home of Dulaney Valley Inc.

Read his full obituary, details of services, and sign his guest book.

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