Carl L. Mayo

Carl Leonard Mayo was born May 19, 1950, to the union of John and Colena Mayo in Ferriday, Louisiana. Mayo completed his earthly journey Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at Centerpoint Hospital in Independence, Missouri. Carl, affectionately known as “Unc” or “Mayo” was the youngest of ten children, seven boys and three girls. Proceeding him in death are his parents John and Colena, four sisters: Ruby Jean Mayo, Mable Winbush, Oletha Mitchell, Maxine Pouncil, and two brothers William Mayo, and John Mayo Jr. After being educated in the Dyersburg, Tennessee school system, Carl went on to proudly serve in the United States Air Force, stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Upon completion of his military career, he settled close to his sisters and began working at Ford Motor Company, retiring in 2004 after a 30-year career. Carl loved vintage westerns, fast cars, and the KC Chiefs.  As much as he enjoyed the leisure solitude of retirement, having time with his beloved family kept him going. He was the proud father of three children: Valerie Mayo of Dyersburg, TN, Reginald “Reggie” Mayo of Lawrence, KS and Brandi McGill of Kansas City, KS.  He truly loved being able to share in celebrating his grandchildren’s success, and doting on his first great grandchild, Dairionn “DJ” Jr. who kept him smiling even when his days were cloudy. As Carl’s mobility changed, his village stepped up to make sure his needs and wants were met no matter the request.  Mr. Michael “B” Davis of his neighborhood became his soldier of service, his little big sister Rosa Washington, nephew Cedric Mayo and his niece Phyllis Smith, were devoted to ensuring his days included constant spoiling to the point of his abrupt end of visits, with a simple, “You can go.” The love Carl had and gave to his family ran deep and would later be reciprocated via his grandsons’ Dontae and Dairionn Sr. with their never hesitating acts of care and willingness to be there in any capacity. Carl leaves to mourn his passing, his children; Valerie Mayo, Dyersburg, TN; Reggie Mayo of Lawrence, KS; and Brandi McGill of Kansas City, KS. Seven grandchildren, Erick Mayo, Isaiah “Zeke” Mayo, Braelynn Mayo, Kyzia Mayo, Dairionn Billberry Sr., Dontae Billberry, and Cameron Mason. One great grandson Dairionn Billberry Jr. Three sisters; Rosa Washington, Raytown, MO; Lillian “Sally” Thomas, Millington TN; and Edith Mayo, Dyersburg, TN;  and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, caretakers, and friends.