Carol Bowman Mayes, a beloved wife, mother, and devoted servant of her community, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, at her home in Pleasant View, Tennessee, at the age of 85.
Born on September 16, 1940, in Washington, DC, Carol pursued her education with determination and grace. She attended Cornell University and later the University of Minnesota, where she met the love of her life, Oscar Lee Mayes, Jr. The two would share 62 years of marriage, building a life defined by faith, service, and devotion to one another. Carol went on to earn her Bachelor of Social Science from Eckerd College in 2001, a testament to her lifelong commitment to learning and growth.
Carol dedicated 27 years to Tampa Electric Company, where she began in customer service before creating an innovative outreach department that served as a liaison between the utility, the community, and law enforcement.
A woman of quick wit, warmth, and meticulous character, Carol channeled her love of cooking, organizing, and event planning into a thriving catering and event business alongside her dear friend and partner, Lorraine Whitehurst. Together they brought joy to countless parties, weddings, and social gatherings. Carol was also actively involved with Mary Kay, Business and Professional Women, and numerous other civic organizations, leading always by example.
A devout Christian, Carol found her spiritual home at St. James United Methodist Church in Tampa, Florida, where she and Oscar participated in mission trips to West Virginia and communities along the eastern seaboard. Her faith was the foundation of everything she did, and her life stood as a living witness to the family mottos she held dear: “God Be With You Always” and “Thank God For Life.”
Carol is survived by her devoted husband, Oscar Lee Mayes, Jr.; her sons, Jeffrey Allan Mayes and Anthony Victor Mayes; and her daughter, Misha Lynn Melancon.
Memorial and funeral services will be held on April 9, 2026, at Boyd Funeral Home, 101 Elizabeth Street, Ashland City, Tennessee 37015. Viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the service commencing at 12:00 p.m.
Thank you for your prayers and fellowship.
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This obituary was published by Boyd Funeral Home – Ashland City.
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