In Loving Memory of Herbert Eugene "Gene" Mayo

Herbert Eugene Mayo, known affectionately by everyone as Gene, passed away leaving behind a legacy of hard work, community service, and devotion to his family. A cornerstone of the Madill community for over sixty years, Gene was a man whose life was defined by his commitment to his country, his business, and his fraternal brotherhood.

A Life of Service and Business

Gene's journey of service began in the United States Navy, where he served as a medic from 1947 to 1950. In 1960, he moved to Madill and, alongside his parents and his sister and brother-in-law, opened the Sportsman Thrifty Center. For nearly two decades, Gene operated the grocery store, becoming a familiar face to every household in town. Through his business, he employed hundreds of local residents over the years, earning deep respect for his work ethic and the positive impact he had on countless families in Madill.

A Pillar of the Community

Gene was perhaps also known for his lifelong dedication to the Masonic Lodge. He was a 74-year member of the Creekmore Masonic Lodge #74 (formerly Oakland Masonic Lodge). His leadership was instrumental to the organization; he served as the Worshipful Master in 1970 and was a driving force behind the fundraisers that secured the new lodge building on West Lillie.

His service extended to several branches of the order, including:

• Scottish Masonic Rite: Member for 71 years.

• Order of the Eastern Star: Member for 73 years.

• International Order of the Rainbow for Girls: Served faithfully as a "Dad."

When he wasn't serving his community or lodge, Gene found peace in the outdoors. He was an avid farmer and gardener who took particular pride in his pecan trees.

Family Legacy

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lutheria Mayo; his parents, George Wesley and Inez Mayo; his sister and brother-in-law, Chrystene and Jack Pickens; his nephew, James Allen Pickens; and his two daughters, Linda Mayo King and Jeanie Mayo Elliott.

He is survived by a family who will carry on his memory:

• Son-in-law: Bobby Royce King of Madill, Oklahoma.

• Granddaughter: Kimberly Elliott De La Garza of Austin, Texas, and great-grandchildren Zoey, Aaron, and Gabby.

• Granddaughter: Cherish King Ralls of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, and great-grandchildren Sage, Bentley, and Pippa.

• Niece: Paula Kay Pickens Uzzel of Madill, Oklahoma.

Gene Mayo was a man of quiet strength and enduring loyalty. His influence on the town of Madill and the organizations he loved will be felt for generations to come.