Jeffery Glen Mayo

Jeffery Glen Mayo “Jeff” entered the presence of his Savior on the 26th day of August 2024. His departure was unexpected and heart-breaking, but our hearts have since been filled with hope and joy in knowing he is now with his God and our God, and we will see him again. Jeff is not only in heaven with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, but he has also been reunited with his heavenly family of loved ones and friends.

Jeff was a follower of Christ, a man of God. He loved God and his family with passion. He was a devoted husband and father, and always made time for Gail and Grace. He was a planner and a doer, and even with all his responsibilities at work, he made sure to plan frequent and memorable get-aways and vacation times with Gail and Grace, and often included dear friends and family. He honored God as a loving husband and father. Jeff not only loved his family, but he too, was kind, generous, faithful, and devoted to friends and fellow employees and students. Jeff cared for his family, friends, and the Arlington community. He loved his role as Superintendent of Arlington Community Schools and was devoted to excellence in all he set his hand to do. He loved and cared about people and enjoyed building strong and enduring relationships. God gave him a heart and mind with the wisdom and knowledge to be a great leader. He was a great leader.

Jeff was born in Milan, TN on the 25th day of June 1965 to Glen and Jane Mayo. He obtained degrees in Education and Psychology from Union University and later earned his master’s +30 degree in Educational Administration. He had a great affection for teaching and education. He began his career in Shelby County Schools. He taught for a mere five years. His leadership skills were evident from the beginning, and he quickly moved into administrative positions serving as Assistant Principal of Elmore Park Middle School, Principal of E. E. Jeter Elementary School, Supervisor of Human Resources, Director of Human Resources, and Executive Director of Human Resources.

Jeff met Gail after he moved to Memphis, and they fell in love. He proposed in February of 1995. Their love and relationship blossomed, and they married on June 10, 1995. In March of 2004, they were delighted to bring Grace Elizabeth Mayo into the world. Grace held an incredibly special place in Jeff’s heart.

Jeff’s career in education and administration continued to advance when he joined the Arlington Community Schools district as Chief of Staff in 2014. In April 2020, Jeff was named the superintendent of the district. He loved his position, and more importantly, the employees, students, and families of the district. Jeff knew people – what I mean is, he had people skills like a jedi. He could think about the now, and the tomorrow, while keeping the past in view. He listened and thought and then he spoke. He cared. Jeff was indeed called to this work – God gave him the gifts and Jeff used them. His outstanding work has been continually acknowledged over his 36 years in education. His most recent commendation was being recognized as one of the top 25 superintendents to watch in the nation who have demonstrated dynamic, fast-paced leadership with strong communication at its core.

Jeff was a valued husband and father. He was so proud of Grace and so blessed by Gail. He considered himself a blessed man. We will all miss him. There was only one Jeff Mayo, but his character and passion for excellence and love for people rubbed off on many, including many students who have grown up to become parents and teachers. His legacy lives on through those he taught and led into the field of continuing education, and through his family. We thank God for Jeff Mayo. Well done!

Jeff Mayo leaves behind his wife, Gail Anderson Mayo of Arlington, TN; Jeff also leaves behind his daughter, Grace Elizabeth Mayo, of Arlington, TN. Jeff precedes his mother, Jane Barrett Mayo, and two sisters, Lianne Mayo Fletcher, and Lisa Mayo Harris, all of Milan, TN, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Charles Glen Mayo.

A Celebration of Life service will take place Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at 6:00 pm at Bellevue Baptist Church, 2000 Appling Rd, Cordova, TN, 38016.