Obituary

Curtis Porter Mayo was born on April 23, 1951, to John William Mayo, Sr. and Ruth Streat Mayo. He was the third of six beloved children in his family, and from a young age, his life was shaped by the love and guidance of his parents. A proud Luther P. Jackson High School graduate, Curtis completed his education in 1970 and entered the workforce, eager to begin his journey.

Curtis embraced various roles throughout his career, including positions with the Virginia Department of Corrections and Tomac Builders. He dedicated many years to Thomasville Furniture before retiring. After retirement, Curtis found fulfillment in pursuing his true passion for craftsmanship, becoming a respected carpenter in his neighborhood, where he was valued for his skills and creativity.

Curtis was raised in a loving, Bible-believing family and became a cherished member of Little Fork Baptist Church in Cartersville, Virginia, from a young age. His commitment to the church was evident as he remained actively involved until health challenges affected him. For many years, he devoted himself to leadership as the chairman of the Board of Trustees and served as the church treasurer, roles he took on with great dedication. His faith was a source of strength throughout his life, providing comfort and guidance during difficult times. His contributions and unwavering belief will always be remembered by those he touched.

Curtis peacefully transitioned into eternal life at the third hour on the seventh day of the eleventh month. Affectionately known as C.P., he was a man of conviction who stood firm in his beliefs and fought passionately for what he thought was right. Curtis was indeed a jack of all trades—a master of many. His passion for working with his hands enabled him to connect with his community, as he frequently took on various tasks around town, ranging from landscaping to carpentry. He enjoyed collaborating with others and generously sharing his knowledge and expertise. Surprisingly, Curtis, a Black man, built the largest home in Cumberland County, Virginia. He also played a crucial role in constructing the new sanctuary of Little Fork Baptist Church in Cartersville, Virginia, which is still used today. A true outdoorsman, Curtis found joy in nature's simplicity, whether hunting or fishing. He had a knack for tinkering and repurposing items, always seeing potential where others might not. When he wasn't crafting treasures from everyday materials, he would listen to classic oldies or in the kitchen preparing his cherished meals—fried pork chops, "tatas," mackerel cakes, and a comforting pan of cornbread. Sports were another passion for Curtis; he loved watching games, particularly if he could enjoy a good "taste" at the same time. Despite his team's challenges, he remained a devoted San Francisco 49ers fan through thick and thin.

He will be lovingly remembered as a man of his word who genuinely loved people. His warm spirit made everyone feel like a friend, and his distinctive sense of humor brightened many moments, helping those around him share laughter, regardless of the circumstances. Curtis cherished his time with friends and family, often being the life of the party until sleep overtook him. He was remarkable, always willing to lend a hand and treat everyone he met as family. The void he leaves behind is deeply felt and will be profoundly missed.

Curtis is preceded in death by his brother, Terry D. Mayo; two brothers-in-law, Tommie L. McClinton and Woodrow "Bubba" Donikin; and nephew, Gary L. McClinton.

He is lovingly survived by his devoted only daughter, DeUndra L. Mayo (Christopher) of Richmond, Virginia, and his wife, Althea H. Mayo, who shared the joys and challenges of life in the home. Their extended family includes Althea's daughter, Adrienne Hill, of Charlottesville, Virginia, and her three sons whom he embraced as his own: Jerriques (Brittany) of Richmond, Virginia; Jeremie, who continues to reside at home; and Lorenzo Christopher of Charlottesville, Virginia. His warm spirit is also carried on by his two dedicated sisters, Rose M. McClinton and Patricia D. Hilliard, both of Cartersville, Virginia, and his loving brothers, John W. Mayo, Jr. (Dorothy) of Garner, North Carolina, and Rev. Larry M. Mayo, Sr. (Vicey) of Goochland, Virginia. He is fondly remembered by his caring uncle, Samuel Goode (Debbie) of Goochland, Virginia, and his dear godson, Brian McClinton (Trevena) of Midlothian, Virginia. The bonds of love he created extend to numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends, and especially to his very dear friend, Darryl Mayo, of Charlottesville, Virginia. Among those he cherished is his beloved nephew, Maurice Donikin El, who held a unique and special place in his heart, embodying the profound connections Curtis cultivated throughout his life in Cartersville, Virginia. His legacy of love and compassion will continue to touch the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

You were the third out of six

Almost in the middle and so full of tricks

Always trying to bargain your way

No matter whether it was fun work or play

Love to have fun in whatever you do

Life of the party regardless of where you choose

in your apparel everything had to match

Even down to the shoes and oh what a batch

Kept everything straight never shoot from the hip

Boy oh boy could he give some lip

was the corrector of all the wrong

the first to say when something did not belong

As time whined down each day you were chilling

You carried it well and always willing

to keep a straight face and ask for the pilling

for answers to the questions no time for drilling

Toward the end you were as quiet as a mouse

Stayed inside and close to the house

Your new journey has now begun,

And I know mom and dad was glad to see their son

You made it thru by riding the tides

And I will be waiting to see you on the other side.

Little Sis,

Pat