Jesse James Mayes

Jesse J. Mayes, 100, of Chesterfield, went to be with the Lord on Monday July 21, 2014. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bernice Virdell Mayes; and parents George and Annie Mayes. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Jesselle and Robert Christenson; and grandchildren, J. Elaine Albert and Erik Christenson. Jesse was a retired lieutenant colonel in the US Army and served during WWII and the Korean War. He was a Master Parachutist in the 555th PIB and the 82nd Airborne Division. As an officer, one of his many accomplishments was his appointment as the first Black to serve at NORAD. He became a professor at Virginia State College, initially as Professor of Military Science (ROTC) and subsequently in Mathematics and Computer Science. In 1984 he was the first black elected to serve on the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, representing the Matoaca District. In addition to being a proud member of the 555th Parachute Infantry Association, he also served as its National President and Treasurer. The family will receive friends 3 p.m. Friday for his memorial service of remembrance at Morrissett Funeral & Cremation Service, 6500 Iron Bridge Road (Rte. 10). Interment will be private at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery.