Cholanda Dovette Mayhue

Cholanda Dovette Mayhue, affectionately known as “Dovette,” was born on September 6, 1970, in Memphis, Tennessee to MaryAnn Mayhue (Wigfall) and David “Billy” Irving. As the first of three daughters born to this union, Dovette stood tall.

She is preceded in death by both parents, Mary Ann Mayhue Wigfall and David “Billy” Irving; maternal grandparents, Arthur and Ruth Mayhue; paternal grandparents, George and Willie Mae Irving; daughter, Natasha Simpson; and aunts, Yvonne “Bonnie” Mayhue, Gwendolyn Mayhue (Smith), and Dorothy Jones.

Her status was Vibrant, Rambunctious, Athletic, and Comically Outspoken.

Dovette received her education in Kansas City, Missouri School District.  She earned her high school diploma from Northeast High School. She was very active in Basketball, Volleyball, Girls’ Flag Football, Track and Field, and, yes, cheerleading with the Pom-Pom Squad. Dovette was an advocate for Planned Parenthood to ensure her classmates practiced safe measures in their growing environment. She furthered her education at Concorde Career Institute with an interest in phlebotomy.

Dovette was employed with DST Systems. She, later, moved over to the Internal Revenue Service.

Dovette met Willis Simpson in high school, and they began a lifelong partnership. This union would bless them with three children.  Her new role of motherhood allowed her to take an early retirement to focus on family.

Dovette enjoyed the relaxation of watching movies and Marvel cartoons.  She loved to listen to a wide stream of music. She enjoyed having drinks and giggles with the girls as well as getting pampered with manicures and pedicures.  What Dovette cherished the most was spending time with and spoiling her grandchildren. Being a grandmother was a role she took on with much admiration.

On June 30, 2025, Dovette unexpectedly passed away at Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City. She was surrounded by family at her bedside.

Dovette leaves to cherish her memories: life partner, Willis Simpson; two sons, Cassius Simpson and Parris Simpson; and three grandchildren, Seveah Simpson, Skyy Simpson, and Cassius, Jr.; two sisters, Patsha Mayhue and Robin Mayhue-Brown; and brother-in-law, McLawrence Brown, III.

Dovette will be truly missed by so many family members and friends.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.