Ken Mayhew

In Loving Memory of Kenneth "Ken" Edwin Mayhew, Jr. September 29, 1934 – July 21, 2025
Kenneth "Ken" Edwin Mayhew, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and distinguished business leader, passed away peacefully at his home on July 21, 2025, at the age of 90. A man of unwavering integrity, intelligence, and generosity, Ken lived a life rooted in faith, family, service, and a deep passion for business and education.
Born on September 29, 1934, in Cleveland County, to the late Kenneth Edwin, Sr., and Evelyn Lee (Dellinger) Mayhew, Ken was raised in Cherryville, North Carolina. He graduated from Cherryville High School in 1952 and earned his undergraduate degree from Duke University in 1956, where he cultivated a lifelong devotion to his alma mater. A proud and loyal Duke Blue Devil, Ken was a die-hard fan and a lifelong Iron Duke who gave back to the university in many ways, including serving on the Business Advisory Board of the Fuqua School of Business.
Ken began his career at Arthur Andersen & Company in Atlanta, Georgia, from 1956 to 1958 and again from 1960 to 1963, following his service in the United States Army from 1958 to 1960. He went on to dedicate over 27 years of service to Carolina Freight Carriers Corporation (CFCC), where he rose through the ranks to become Chairman, President, and CEO, retiring in 1993. His leadership left a lasting impact not only on the company but also on the broader transportation industry. He served as Director and Vice President of the American Trucking Association, Director and Chairman of the North Carolina Trucking Association, and was a trusted voice in business circles across the state.
Ken's commitment to community was steadfast. He served as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at Gaston Memorial Hospital, Vice President of Public Affairs for the Gaston County Chamber of Commerce, and President of the Cherryville Lions Club from 1971 to 1973. He was also a dedicated member of the Board of Trustees for Pfeiffer University and an esteemed member of several academic honor societies, including Phi Beta Kappa, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Phi Eta Sigma.
In recognition of his significant contributions to North Carolina's business community, Ken was awarded the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine in 1992, by Governor Jim Martin for his service on the Governor's Business Advisory Council. Ken married Frances Elaine Craft, in 1957, and together they shared over four decades of marriage until her passing. In 2006, Ken found love again and married Darlene Burgess Randall, who remained by his side in his later years. A man of faith, Ken cherished his church community and found joy in worship and fellowship. He loved his family, his Duke Blue Devils, and a nice round of golf. Those who knew him admired his sharp mind, perceptive nature, and abiding dedication to excellence.
Ken's legacy lives on through his family, his work, and the many lives he touched throughout his journey. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Frances Craft Mayhew; infant son, Steven Eugene Mayhew; and his sister, Catherine Day.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Darlene Burgess Mayhew; daughter, Catherine Mayhew Prince (Gregory Mark); step-daughter, Fielding Randall Yelverton (Joshua); grandchildren, Natalie Pulley (Ryan), Marcia Prince, and Greg Prince; step-grandchildren, Benjamin and Pearce Yelverton; and great grandchildren, Laine and Connor Pulley.
The family will receive friends on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 1:00pm to 1:45pm, at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church with the Reverend Zach Christy officiating.
Burial will follow at Cherryville City Memorial Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 106 Pink Street, Cherryville, NC 28021, or the charity of your choice.
Online condolences can be made at https://stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey-Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service.