Kendall Mark Mayfield

Kendall Mark "Ken" Mayfield, beloved father, mentor, and former professional athlete, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, at the home he shared with his daughter in Decatur, Georgia. He was 77.
Born on May 11, 1948, in Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, Ken was the cherished son of Zenobia and Clarence Mayfield. From his earliest days, his talent, discipline, and kindness set him apart. He excelled in athletics at Chicago's Dunbar High School before continuing his education and basketball career at Coffeyville Community College in Kansas and later at Tuskegee University in Alabama.
At Tuskegee, he became a prolific scorer and a respected team leader, earning national recognition and, years later, induction into the Tuskegee University Athletics Hall of Fame (Class of 1999).
In 1971, Ken fulfilled a lifelong dream when he was drafted by the New York Knicks of the NBA. He proudly took the court during the 1975–76 season, representing his city and his alma mater with humility and pride. Following his NBA run, he continued his career overseas with the Belgium Lions of the European Professional Basketball League, competing in Antwerp, Brussels, and Liège before returning to the United States.
After retiring from professional sports, Ken transitioned into a respected career in business and education, where he became a trusted mentor and motivator. Whether teaching in the classroom, coaching young athletes, or guiding new professionals, he instilled values of discipline, kindness, and perseverance. In later years, Ken remained active as a Senior Olympian, proving that passion and joy never age.
Ken is survived by his loving children: Tasha T. Mayfield, Kendall Mark Mayfield II (Brandy), and Matthew K. Mayfield (Tara); former spouses Betty O. Hargrett and Linda Smith; grandchildren Markus, Dante, Daiza, Kyndal, Jayden, Taylor, MJ, Jace, and Talia; and great-grandchildren Kimari, Khy, and Melody.
He is also survived by his siblings Margaret Harris, Elliot Mayfield, LaWanda Gibson, his aunt Cynthia Thompson, and a host of beloved nieces and nephews. Ken was preceded in death by his siblings Marilyn Mayfield, Clare Cassidy, Andrea Mayfield, and Karen Morris.
Ken's warmth, humor, and integrity will live forever in the hearts of his colleagues, teammates, and friends.
A celebration of life will be held immediately after the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please honor Ken's legacy by mentoring a young person, supporting HBCU athletics, or cheering on a local team-just as he always did.
Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, 4347 Flat Sholas Parkway, Decatur, GA 30034.