Catherine Jones Mayo

Born Catherine Vernell Jones, she married the love of her life, Johnnie Edward Mayo, in 1973. Together, Cathi and Johnnie built a life centered on faith, family, laughter, and hard work, and were blessed with three children. After Johnnie’s passing in 2017, she carried on with remarkable strength, always putting the needs of those she loved before her own. Strong-willed in the very best sense, Cathi used her fierce determination to serve and care for others.

A faithful follower of Christ, Cathi was a devoted member of First Baptist Church Rogersville. She joyfully served wherever she was needed, leading the Young at Heart Group, helping with Awana, and volunteering across numerous ministries. Her servant’s heart also extended globally through her participation in two mission trips. Her faith was not something she simply professed; it was beautifully evident in the way she loved and cared for people every single day.

Cathi dedicated 27 years of faithful service to McGriff, Seibels & Williams, forming lifelong friendships that lasted long into her retirement. While she was proud of her career, nothing brought her greater joy than her family. To her grandchildren, she was “Meenaw”—a name she never would have chosen for herself, but one she quickly grew to adore. Once she became a grandmother, nothing suited her better. She delighted in spoiling them, celebrating their accomplishments, and creating countless memories. Living next door to part of her family for the past nine years gave her the priceless gift of being woven into their everyday lives, a blessing she treasured deeply.

Known for her quick wit and playful spirit, Cathi loved a good laugh, a sharp tease, and a clever prank. She had a rare gift for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories, and she never met a stranger, routinely making newcomers feel like family. Above all, Cathi loved deeply and unconditionally. Even in the midst of illness, she demonstrated extraordinary courage and grace, reminding everyone around her what true perseverance and hope look like.

Cathi leaves behind a legacy of faith, contagious laughter, and unwavering devotion. While her absence leaves an immeasurable ache, her influence will echo through generations.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of nearly 44 years, Johnnie Edward Mayo, and her parents, David Edward Jones Sr. and Mary Catherine Jones.

She is survived by her children, Matthew Mayo (Julie), Phillip Mayo, and Kacey White (Joby); her siblings, Sharon Irby (Craig), David Jones (Anita), Cindy Cole, and Pam Webb (Jack); her cherished grandchildren, Jacob, Alexis, Brooklyn, Charlee, Morgan, Taylor, AbieAnna, Brunson, Merritt, Asa, and Hazel, as well as Liam who held a special place in her heart as the grandson she chose to love as her own; a large extended family; and countless friends whose lives were made richer by her presence.

The family finds comfort in the promise of Christ that death is not the end for those who belong to Him. Though they grieve, they do so with the certain hope of a heavenly reunion.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to their church family at First Baptist Church Rogersville for their love, prayers, and support during this time.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7