Donald Wayne Mayo

Donald Wayne Mayo, age 88, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away on September 15, 2026, at PBRMC.

Donald was born December 3, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, to Amos and Etta Mayo. He was a graduate of Poplar Bluff High School in 1956. On July 12, 1957, Donald married Myrna M. Kearbey. Their marriage was a cherished part of his life.

Donald gave his heart to Jesus as a child after hearing a missionary speak at Lone Hill School. He was an ordained deacon and was licensed as a minister in 1971 at New Hope Baptist Church in Doniphan, Missouri. He was later ordained as a pastor at Lone Prairie Baptist Church. Throughout his years of ministry, he faithfully served several congregations, including Lone Prairie Baptist Church in Qulin, Missouri; Shady Grove Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas; Bono Baptist Church in Bono, Arkansas; and Memorial Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. He also served as Interim DOM for the Cane Creek Stoddard Baptist Association.

In addition to his ministry, Donald served his country in the Missouri Army National Guard from 1954 - 1962 where he achieved the rank of E-5. He began his work career as a partner in a TV repair business. Next, he worked for the Railroad, Vitronic, then returned to the railroad where he eventually retired. Donald liked to stay busy, so he had a side business, Mayo Electronic Service, all while working 40 plus hours at a regular job. His life was characterized by a strong faith, devotion to his family, and a commitment to serving others.

Donald is survived by his daughter, Jeannie Wilkins husband, Rev. Jay Wilkins; two sons, Rev. Steven Mayo wife, Sandra, and Rev. Roger Mayo wife, Malisa; six grandchildren, Jennifer Collier husband, Rev. Matthew Collier; Next Generation Pastor Jason Wilkins wife, Emmali; Ashley Mayo; Malinda Boone husband, Andrew Boone; Ryan Mayo; Jasmine Wilkins; and seven great-grandchildren, Walter wife Kenzi, Abigail, and Ben Collier; Harvey and PeNellope Wilkins; and Austin and Alex Boone.

He was preceded in death by his parents Amos and Etta Mayo, one sister Barbara McGee and his beloved wife, Myrna Mayo.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at the funeral Home with burial to follow at Sparkman Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gideon International in Donald’s memory.

Donald leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and faithful service. His years of ministry and devotion to others touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and the many people he served throughout his life.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Donald Ray Mayo. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com