John Gilbert Mayo, affectionately known as Gib, emerged into the world as the son of Albert and Georgia Mayo in Chester County. His life's journey led him to Jackson, TN, where his indomitable spirit and experiences shaped a remarkable story.
Gib's dedication to his country was evident as he served in the North African Theatre during World War II. Venturing into Germany, he faced the formidable Battle of the Bulge, earning the moniker "Foxhole" for his meticulous habit of digging a protective foxhole at every pause, a practice that gained respect when his unit faced shelling.
Surviving 569 days in the throes of war, Gib candidly shared his visceral fear, expressing a singular desire to emerge alive from the ordeal. Upon returning home, he grappled with the haunting aftermath, narrating tales of nervousness, jumpiness, and haunting nightmares. A poignant incident involving an accidental shot at his best mule revealed the profound struggles of readjustment.
Gib's brothers, JR and Loyd, shared in the wartime sacrifice. Sadly, Loyd paid the ultimate price, losing his life in service.
Beyond his wartime heroics, Gib showcased his talents as an accomplished musician, mastering several instruments. His cherished possession, a 1951 Gibson Mandolin, became a symbolic link passed down through generations.
Gleason, TN, became Gib's home for much of his post-war life, though he also spent time with his brothers in Michigan. In his later years, he found solace staying with your parents, fostering deeper connections with family. His character, marked by resilience and charm, left an indelible mark, and his absence is keenly felt.
JACKSON - John Gilbert Mayo, 83, retired mechanic for Weakley County Highway Department, died of heart failure Tuesday at Chester County Nursing Home in Henderson. Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Lawrence-Sorensen Funeral Home with burial in New Valley Cemetery in Gleason.
He was a World War II Army veteran of the 1st Armored Division "Fighting First" 16th Combat Engineers serving in Europe. He was a member of Gleason Baptist Church.
Mr. Mayo, the widower of Ruth Stout Mayo, leaves two sons, Bobby Mayo of Pinson and Jimmy Mayo of Goodlettsville; a sister, Annie Mae DeYoung of St. Charles, Mich., six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
John Gilbert Mayo, affectionately known as Gib, emerged into the world as the son of Albert and Georgia Mayo in Chester County. His life's journey led him to Jackson, TN, where his indomitable spirit and experiences shaped a remarkable story.
Gib's dedication to his country was evident as he served in the North African Theatre during World War II. Venturing into Germany, he faced the formidable Battle of the Bulge, earning the moniker "Foxhole" for his meticulous habit of digging a protective foxhole at every pause, a practice that gained respect when his unit faced shelling.
Surviving 569 days in the throes of war, Gib candidly shared his visceral fear, expressing a singular desire to emerge alive from the ordeal. Upon returning home, he grappled with the haunting aftermath, narrating tales of nervousness, jumpiness, and haunting nightmares. A poignant incident involving an accidental shot at his best mule revealed the profound struggles of readjustment.
Gib's brothers, JR and Loyd, shared in the wartime sacrifice. Sadly, Loyd paid the ultimate price, losing his life in service.
Beyond his wartime heroics, Gib showcased his talents as an accomplished musician, mastering several instruments. His cherished possession, a 1951 Gibson Mandolin, became a symbolic link passed down through generations.
Gleason, TN, became Gib's home for much of his post-war life, though he also spent time with his brothers in Michigan. In his later years, he found solace staying with your parents, fostering deeper connections with family. His character, marked by resilience and charm, left an indelible mark, and his absence is keenly felt.
JACKSON - John Gilbert Mayo, 83, retired mechanic for Weakley County Highway Department, died of heart failure Tuesday at Chester County Nursing Home in Henderson. Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Lawrence-Sorensen Funeral Home with burial in New Valley Cemetery in Gleason.
He was a World War II Army veteran of the 1st Armored Division "Fighting First" 16th Combat Engineers serving in Europe. He was a member of Gleason Baptist Church.
Mr. Mayo, the widower of Ruth Stout Mayo, leaves two sons, Bobby Mayo of Pinson and Jimmy Mayo of Goodlettsville; a sister, Annie Mae DeYoung of St. Charles, Mich., six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
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