53, of Louisville, KY, passed away Saturday, May 12, 2018 surrounded by her family. The disease of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) held her body, but never her mind, captive for nearly 30 years. She is now free.
She is preceded in death by her father Robert Mayfield Sr. who was waiting at the gates of heaven to greet her.
Left to cherish her memory is her mother, Marilyn Mayfield, sister Sherrie Gartland (Dale) and brother Bobby Mayfield (Cindy).
Connie loved and had achieved “Favorite Aunt Status” from her nine nieces and nephews: Kristen Geary (Tony), Samantha Simmons, Kaila Mayfield (Justin), Breanna Franzell, John Franzell (Mariah), Kyle Mayfield, Grady Gartland, Haley Gartland, and Jenna Gartland; also her great niece and nephews: Kaiden Simmons, Konner Singleton, Brayden Bray, Kailub Bray, and Charlie Geary.
Connie was a free spirit. She enjoyed rock ‘n’ roll and riding motorcycles with her biker friends before MS stole that away. She graduated from Valley High School in 1982, even though in her heart she was a Stuart Spartan all the way. Upon graduating high school, she attended Dental Assisting school and began a career in the dental assisting field obtaining her EDDA certification. Her career would be cut short with the diagnosis of MS. For the next 30 years her full time job was battling a disease that would break her body but not her spirit.
Throughout her life, Connie encountered many people who helped her along her journey. Stanley was her first friend when she entered residential care. He taught Connie much about living in a facility and made Connie’s stay there a better one. Stanley took Connie on many adventures cruising the sidewalks of the Highlands in their electric wheelchairs. On a regular basis, they could be found in the drive-thru of McDonalds in their wheelchairs.
While in residential care Connie met another friend, Scott, with whom she fell in love. Together they were able to leave residential care and live independently. During this time, her niece Kaila became Connie’s caretaker. She provided additional assistance that Connie and Scott could not provide for themselves. She had a very close relationship with her Aunt Connie, and was always willing to be at her side to lend a loving hand. Upon Scott’s sudden death, Connie moved back home to be cared for by her Mom.
When her disease progressed and she could no longer be cared for at home, Connie reentered residential care for the last time. It was there that she met Kevin. He quickly befriended Connie and connected her with other residents within the facility. They shared a friendship that was very special to Connie, and it comforted the family that he was there to oversee her care. Telephoning us often when Connie needed a refill on her Cokes or shampoo. Kevin was Connie’s most fierce advocate. He made certain that all of her needs were met swiftly. He was the squeaky wheel that got Connie the attention she needed.
During her journey Connie would, at times, waiver in her faith. Diane, a resident and disciple in Christ, regularly read The Bible to Connie and prayed with her. She helped reconnect Connie with her faith. During Connie’s final hours, Diane reassured her of Jesus’ promise of eternal life.
The family would like to thank these people for traveling with Connie along this journey. We are forever grateful for all you did to make Connie’s time on earth a little easier.
The family would also like to express gratitude to Cathy Hernandez who shared her gift of time with Connie. And to, Shelton and Amy O’Bannon who were always willing to answer questions or help in making travel arrangements for Connie. Often loaning us the use of their wheelchair accessible van. Thank you for your love and support.
Finally, we would like to give a huge Thank You to the caregivers on the 200 unit for their friendship and care of our daughter, sister, and aunt.
In her final hours, Connie was surrounded by the people she loved most as she broke free from her body, a prison that held her captive for 30 years. She will be greatly missed, but we rejoice in the fact that she is walking with her daddy in heaven today.
Visitation will be held at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Rd., May 16 from 1pm-7pm. A memorial service will begin at 7pm.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
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