Kendall Mark Mayfield

Kendall Mark “Ken” Mayfield, a devoted father, educator, athlete, and business professional, passed away peacefully on the morning of November 3, 2025, at his daughter’s home in Decatur, Georgia. He was 77. Born on May 11, 1948, in Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, Ken grew up with determination, athletic ability, and a deep‐rooted sense of purpose. As a youth on Chicago’s South Side, he honed his game early, earning recognition and cultivating the traits of leadership and discipline that would define his life. He attended Coffeyville Community College in Kansas (1967-68) before transferring to Tuskegee University in Alabama (1968-71). At Tuskegee, he became one of the thundering scoring threats in the region, earned SIAC All-Conference honors and, in recognition of his collegiate excellence, was inducted into the Tuskegee University Athletics Hall of Fame (Class of 1999). Ken’s professional athletic career was distinguished and varied. He entered the NBA draft in 1971 and was selected in the 3rd round (50th overall) by the New York Knicks. Though his playing time with the Knicks was brief—13 games in the 1975-76 season with an average of 2.8 points per game—he proudly wore jersey #16 and achieved what few Southern HBCU athletes of his era did: reaching the NBA. Prior to and interspersed with his NBA tenure, Ken starred in the Eastern Basketball Association (EBA) for the Allentown Jets and Scranton Apollos. He earned All-EBA Second Team honors in 1973 and First Team in 1974. In early 1975, he extended his reach internationally, signing with the Belgium Lions of the European Professional Basketball League (EPBL). This team traveled through Belgium—including Antwerp, Brussels and Liège—and added a valuable international chapter to his athletic journey. After his playing career, Ken transitioned into business and education with the same vigor and integrity that had served him on the court. He mentored young professionals, provided leadership in community organizations and shared generously of his time and insight. His philosophy was simple: excellence is built from everyday habits, and success is best when shared. Always competitive, Ken later engaged in senior athletic events, embodying his belief that the spirit of the game—and the joy of competition—does not fade with age. As a father, he was unwavering: proud, present, encouraging, and always a comforting voice. His friendships and professional relationships were built on trust, follow-through and authenticity. Ken leaves behind a rich and loving legacy. He is survived by his daughter: Tasha T. Mayfield; his sons: Kendall Mark Mayfield II (Brandy) and Matthew K. Mayfield (Tara); his former spouses: Betty O. Hargrett and Linda Smith; his grandchildren: Markus, Dante, Kyndal, Jayden, Taylor, MJ, Jace, and Talia; and his great‐grandchildren: Kimari, Khy and Melody. He is also survived by his siblings: Margaret Harris, Elliot Mayfield and Marcia Mayfield, along with a host of nieces, nephews, family members, friends, colleagues and former teammates who will forever cherish his kind heart, friendly handshake and uplifting presence. The family will announce a celebration of life in due course. In lieu of flowers, they ask that you honor Ken’s legacy by mentoring a young person, supporting HBCU athletics, or simply attending and cheering on a local team — exactly as Ken would have done. Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, 4347 Flat Sholas Parkway, Decatur, GA 30034.

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Kendall Mark Mayfield

May 11, 1948 - November 3, 2025