"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you.
Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
~ John 14:27
On Saturday, March 24, 1945, the journey of Dorothy Mae Mayes began in Emporia, Virginia. Born to the parentage of Marshall Davis and Virgie Allen, she was the eldest of her siblings. Dorothy displayed a great deal of courage and confidence, at the tender age of ten, as she left home, to carve a new life for herself.
Desiring peace and solitude, Dorothy fled to a foster home for a healthier upbringing. Maturing into a bright, young woman, she secured employment as a field hand and discovered a recreational interest in singing in the choir.
As life progressed, Dorothy married Sylvester Mayes. This union was enhanced with three beautiful children: Sylvester Mayes Jr., Shirldene Boone and Gail Mayes, all whom preceded her in death. Dorothy*s life was much like the words coined by Langston Hughes, *Life for me ain*t been no crystal stair*.
At a third of her century, Dorothy divorced and transitioned into the next phase of life in Baltimore, Maryland. Upon settling there, she became a Nurse at Johns Hopkins University Hospital, where she labored for several years. Her work impacted the life of all that came into contact with her. It was remarked by all who witnessed and received her care that her ingenuity, warm personality, kindness and infectious smile, comforted both patients and staff alike. Realizing the need to perform the duties of grandmother, Dorothy retired from the workforce and embraced her grandchildren.
Shortly thereafter, Dorothy*s health began to decline and she was diagnosed with rapidly progressive colon cancer. On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, Dorothy answered the Master's call to eternal rest. After enduring the battle with much grace and tenacity; she now joins those who preceded her in death: parents, children and brother, James Allen.
Dorothy*s ever-present legacy and bold spirit will forever be honored by: grandchildren, Tavon Boone of Norfolk, Virginia, Alphonso Boone of Smyrna, Georgia, Lynae Pindell and Chaz Powell both of Baltimore, Maryland; sister, Catherine Hill (Levi) of Baltimore, Maryland; son-in-law, Alphonso W. Boone of Emporia, Virginia; a host of other loving relatives and friends.
The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide
"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"
to the Family of Mrs. Dorothy Mae Mayes.
We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer.
"Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11
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