Vennetta Maze

Vennetta Maze, age 85 years, a resident of rural Goreville, Illinois, passed away Friday evening, August 30, 2024, at SIH – Herrin Hospital. Vennetta was born August 11, 1939 in Williamson County Illinois. She was the fifth of six daughters born to Rev. Everett Albright and Gladys (Lewis) Albright. On May 9, 1959, Vennetta was united in marriage to Harold Maze at McKinney Chapel Freewill Baptist Church. Together, Vennetta and Harold shared over 65 years of marriage. In addition to her husband, Vennetta is survived by: her sons – Paul (Julie) Maze, James (LeeAnne) Maze, Shane (Michelle) Maze, and Shawn Maze all of Goreville; a daughter-in-law – Rhonda Maze of Goreville; grandchildren – Cody (Ashleigh) Maze, Seth (Lyndsay) Maze, Jeri (Josh) Berkland, Jalynn (Dylan) Pippins, Jaden Maze, Jamie (Patrick) Malone, Meagan (Caleb) Cato, Madyson (Jacob) Ellis, Wyatt (Mikayla) Maze, Ethan (Natalie) Maze, and Anna (Brent) Sunderlage; great grandchildren – Tenneson, Adelaide, Jameson, Asher, Amelia, Jhett, Jace, Jax, Elayne, Matlocke, Lotten, Laetyn, Weslynn Dallas, Peter, and Lily; a sister – Betty Sullivan of Goreville; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents, Vennetta was preceded in death by a son – Dallas Maze; a daughter-in-law – Crystal Maze; a grandson – Wesley Franklin Maze; and sisters – Velma Hottis, Lois Brewer, Louise Pritchett, and Ina Fosse. Vennetta was a 1956 graduate of Goreville High School. She was the valedictorian of her graduating class. Vennetta earned a scholarship to Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. Vennetta was employed for 32 years at the Goreville State Bank (later Regions Bank). She served in a number of capacities in the bank, prior to her retirement at the age of 72 years. Vennetta enjoyed crafting and creating ceramic figures. She is fondly remembered for her love of family, friends and community. Vennetta had both a smile and a personality that would light up a room. Through the years, she has sent countless birthday, anniversary, and special occasion cards to not only her family but also to friends and acquaintances. These cards and notes of greeting were often accompanied by a stick of Big Red chewing gum. Vennetta was a faithful Christian. She was a member of McKinney Chapel Freewill Baptist Church near the Lake of Egypt. Vennetta served as the church secretary/treasurer for many years. Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon, September 4, 2024, at 1 P.M. at McKinney Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, 532 McKinney Chapel Road, Marion, Illinois. Rev. Gary Clark will officiate. Burial will be in the Friendship Cemetery near Goreville, Illinois. Visitation will be conducted Wednesday, September 4, 2024, from 10 A.M. until the funeral hour at 1 P.M. at McKinney Chapel Freewill Baptist Church. Memorials may be made to Friendship Cemetery, 3544 Alum Cave Road, Marion, Illinois 62959.

Vennetta Maze

August 11, 1939 - August 30, 2024