Roy Austin Maples

Roy Austin Maples, 74, formerly of Cleveland, passed away peacefully at his home in Lakeland, Florida, on Thursday, April 28, 2022.

Roy was a 1965 graduate of Bradley Central High School and a 1969 graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where he earned a degree in industrial engineering. He spent a large part of his career working for the family business, Maples Chair Company.

Roy enjoyed all things outdoors, including boating, motorcycles, traveling and NASCAR. He was happiest when cooking for his family and friends.

He WAs preceded in death by his son, David Austin Maples; parents, Austin and Edith Maples; and niece, Lilly Robinson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Nancy Fleeman Maples; daughter, Jennifer Maples Guy and husband, Boyd; daughter-in-law, Desha Maples; grandchildren, Maggie and Allie Maples, Miller and Hallie Guy; sisters, Sheilah Sellers and husband, Benton, AND Karen Robinson and husband, Steve; niece, Meredith Pelster and husband, Michael; nephew, Sam Robinson and wife, Anna; great-nephews, Ben and Jack Robinson; and great-niece, Mille Grace Pelster.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 28, 2022, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Ralph Buckner Funeral Home.

The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home prior to the memorial service.

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Maples family guestbook at www.ralphbuckner.com. 

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been set up to benefit the missions fund of Son Seekers Sunday School Class at Lakes Church, where Roy was an active member. Donations can be sent to: Roy Maples Memorial Fund, c/o Bob Cody (Treasurer), Son Seekers Class, 2402 Crooked Stick Drive, Winter Haven, FL 33881.