Retired MSG Willie Clarence Mayfield

Willie Clarence Mayfield, affectionately known as “Mayfield” was born on June 23, 1944, to the late Eddie and Thelma Thornton Mayfield in Columbus, Georgia. He passed away peacefully at the National Health Care Rehabilitation Center, Ft. Jackson, South Carolina on Wednesday, August 30, 2023.

Mayfield was educated in the public schools of Columbus, Georgia and was a proud graduate of Spencer High School, Class of 1962. He was well known for his “larger than life” personality and style.

Following high school, Mayfield decided to pursue a career in the United States Army and made the brave decision to to serve his country for nearly 25 years. Mayfield was a member of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Squadron United States Army where he served as a troop in the air assault unit. During his tenure in the military, Mayfield received several accommodations, certifications, promotions and meritorious awards and achievements for his contributions to the U.S. Army. These awards and accolades include the President of United States Air Medal award, Merit Driver Award in Fort Chaffee, AR (1964), Certificate of Completion Noncommissioned U.S. Army Offer Academy Instruction (1970), Certificate of Membership in Recruiter Club Screaming Eagles (1975), Commander’s Certificate Award (1975), Certificate of Achievement and Reenlistment (1975), Army Commendation Medal-Staff Sergeant (1973-1977), Certificate of Excellence Out Front Award (1975), Certificate for Successful Fulfillment Institute, New Recruiter Career Courts (1976), Commander’s Certificate for Commander’s as a Staff Sgt. (1977),  Mentor of Service Award (1977-1979), Senior NCO 15th Battalion Award (1979-1984), Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Dedicated Service (1979-1984), Certificate of Achievement for Operating Procedures (1982,; Senior NCO Command and Staff Course (1983), Certificate of Promotion to Master Sergeant (1984), Army Achievement Medal (1984), and Certificate of Retirement, Master Sergeant (1988). Mayfield served two tours in Vietnam and one in the Gulf War. According to the U.S. Army military website, “The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) is the only air assault division of the United States Army. Nicknamed “Screaming Eagles”, the 101st has consistently distinguished itself by demonstrating the highest standards of military professionalism since its activation at one minute after midnight, August 16, 1942”.

After Mayfield retired from the military, he completed his Associate of Business Degree from Columbia Junior College, in Columbia, South Carolina around 1989. Mayfield later worked in security at the Teacher’s Credit Union and Baptist Medical Center in Columbia before completely retiring to stay at home.

Mayfield was passionate about all sports, especially his favorite college team, the University of Alabama football team. Mayfield was also known for enjoying a good steak and any good dessert as long as it was sweet. Mayfield was personable and known for his philanthropic endeavors.

Mayfield settled in Columbia, South Carolina and married Minnie Suber in 2004.  After traveling the world and attending various churches while in the military, Mayfield found a church home at Brookland Baptist Church, located in West Columbia, South Carolina. In 2003, Mayfield accepted the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and was baptized.

In addition to his parents, Mayfield was preceded in death by his two daughters Wilma Mayfield Brown, Johnnie Mayfield; and two brothers Gregory and Edward Mayfield.

Mayfield leaves to cherish precious memories his wife of 19 year, Minnie Suber Mayfield; one son, Clemson Mayfield; four grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Cathy (Marvin) Rocker and Brenda (Jessie) McCray; two brothers, James Mayfield and Samuel Mayfield; three special children he accepted as his own, Misty Renea Salters, Tamika (Tammy) Baxley and Clarence “Man” Henry Baxley, III; and a host of loving nephews, nieces, cousins, and other loving relatives and friends.