Richard L. Mayes

June 11, 1932 – December 16, 2024

Richard L. Mayes passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, at his home in rural Emporia.

Richard was born on June 11, 1932, in Emporia to E.L. Mayes and Lucile Marks.

He married Norma June Schaefer on September 7, 1952, in Emporia.

He lived on the family farm north of Emporia his entire 92 years of life. The family farm was established 121 years ago (1903).

In his early years, Richard was a farmer and later became involved with soil conservation. During this time, he was also employed as a surveyor and inspector while the Kansas turnpike was being constructed. This experience led to him and Norma to establishing Mayes Construction, Inc.

During his lifetime, Richard had many achievements including: President of FFA; President of National Farmer’s Organization; President of Kansas Land Improvement Contractors of America and was awarded Contractor of the Year in 1982; member of the Lyon County Planning Commission; helped and organized a Make a Wish Foundation Grant; helped organize and establish Cloverleaf 4H Club and served as a leader; served as a volunteer and trustee for the Methodist Church.

After retirement, Richard and Norma traveled extensively in their motor home. They enjoyed escaping the Kansas winters by snowbirding in Arizona.

In his spare time, Richard enjoyed aviation and earned his pilot’s license. He loved to restore antique tractors and participated in local parades and tractor pulls. He enjoyed woodcarving and believe it or not, mowing!

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Norma, daughter Sandra Brooks and husband Mike, son Steven Mayes and wife Becky of Emporia, son Bart Mayes and wife Terry of Berthoud, Colorado. Seven grandchildren, Jason Brooks, Kelli Patton, Clint Mayes, Tyson Mayes, Jessica Dold, Megan Clopton, and Rachael Clopton. 6 great grandchildren, Tate Brooks, Acelynn Brooks, Gavin Mayes, Wyatt Mayes, Colin Patton, and Blake Patton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Donald Mayes, and grandson Ryan Brooks.

A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church, Emporia, on Friday, January 3, 2025, at 10:30 A.M. Cremation is planned.

Memorial contributions to the First United Methodist Church in Emporia can be sent through Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, P.O. Box #175, Emporia, Kansas 66801.