Bishop Garland Rudolph Mayes

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of reverence that we announce the passing of Bishop Garland Rudolph Mayes, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and spiritual leader, who departed this world peacefully on March 23, 2026, at Mary Gran Nursing Home. Born on February 15, 1939, in Oxford, Granville County, North Carolina, Garland lived a life filled with love, faith, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Garland was the cherished son of the late Garland Shepherd Mayes and Maggie Richards. His life was shaped by the loving guidance of his parents and the close bonds he shared with his siblings. Preceded in death by his parents, LouAnnie Morton, Jyles Morton, brother Irious George Morton Sr., and sisters Margaret Mayes, Mary Mayes, and Bernice Mayes, Garland's legacy continues to live in the hearts of those he left behind. In 1977, Garland married the love of his life, Linnie Beamon, in a beautiful ceremony at Macedonia Baptist Church in Piedmont, New York. Their union, which spanned nearly five decades, was a testament to their unwavering devotion and partnership. Together, they nurtured a loving family, including their son Terry Beaman and daughter-in-law Bershanda, daughters Tammy Marlowe and Kimberly Mayes, and their treasured grandson, Tre Beaman. Garland is also survived by his dear sister, Ruth Mayes, who shared in the joys and challenges of life's journey with him. Garland's educational journey led him to graduate from Joe Toler High School in 1956, after which he embarked on a distinguished career as Chief of Police at the Rockland Psychiatric Center and a firefighter for 33 years. His dedication to public service extended to his role as an ISS teacher and bus driver at Hobbton Middle School, where he touched countless lives with his kindness and wisdom. A man of deep faith, Garland began his Christian journey at Johnathan Creek Baptist Church in Oxford, North Carolina. His spiritual path led him to become a deacon at Macedonia Baptist Church in Piedmont, New York, and later, a deacon and superintendent of Sunday School at Union Grove Freewill Baptist Church. Under the guidance of Reverend Edward Hinson and Bishop Jones, Garland found his true calling in the ministry, eventually becoming the esteemed pastor of Union Grove Freewill Baptist Church. Garland was an avid fan of the New York Mets and the North Carolina Tar Heels, often sharing his enthusiasm for sports with family and friends. Known for his kind and generous spirit, Garland was a man who never met a stranger. His laughter, which came from the depths of his heart, was infectious, and he found joy in singing hymnals and savoring a good plate of food, especially oxtails. A celebration of Garland's life will be held on March 30, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Union Grove Freewill Baptist Church, located at 7282 Keener Road, Clinton, NC 28328. As we gather to honor his memory, we are reminded of the profound impact he had on our lives and the enduring legacy of love, faith, and service he leaves behind. In this time of mourning, let us find comfort in the knowledge that Garland's spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. His life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and community, and we are eternally grateful for the time we shared with him. Rest in peace, dear Garland, knowing that you were truly loved and will be deeply missed by all.