James William Mayfield

James William Mayfield, age 91, of Cordell, Oklahoma, passed away on March 25, 2026, in Weatherford, Oklahoma. He was born on June 4, 1934, in Enid, Oklahoma, to William and Edith Mayfield.

Visitation will be from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home, 2500 W Modelle Ave, Clinton, OK, with family greeting friends from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am, Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the First Baptist Church, 215 N College St, Cordell, OK. Interment will follow in the Union Hatchett Cemetery, Bessie.

James graduated from Excelsior High School in Los Angeles, California, in 1953. Shortly after, he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving twenty years as a jet aircraft mechanic. His dedication to service and his skill in aviation maintenance were sources of lifelong pride.

He married Lessie Wren Mayfield on September 13, 1965, in Wichita Falls, Texas. As a part of that union James became dad to six sons and one daughter. In later years he also became dad to granddaughter Cassie Vermillion Zeoli and grandson Chance Vermillion.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1973, James continued his career as a parts manager for twenty-two years at various dealerships in Cordell, Ok. He also spent four years as the General Manager of Inspiration Point Fine Arts Colony in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

A devoted sports enthusiast, James rarely missed a hometown high school game and held a pass that granted him a front‑row seat to the teams he loved. He was an avid supporter of Sooner football and Women’s basketball. His passion for athletics extended beyond the stands—he coached recreational soccer and also served as a referee, encouraging young athletes with patience and enthusiasm.

James had a deep love for classic westerns, especially those starring John Wayne, and he enjoyed the craftsmanship and nostalgia of vintage cars.

He rebuilt several vehicles, Chevy stepside pickup, 57 chevy and was the expert mechanic for many family members. He owned a BSA‑650 motorcycle and others, reflecting his appreciation for adventure even into his 80’s. Fishing brought James great joy throughout his life. He especially loved fishing for pike in North Dakota and spending time along the White River in Arkansas.

He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Edith Mayfield; wife, Lessie Wren Mayfield; infant daughter, Dora Jean Mayfield; sister, Shirley Dearin; brother, Leon Mayfield; sons, David Vermillion and Joe Vermillion; grandchildren, Keith Alan Vermillion, Sabrena Diane Vermillion, Orion James Mayfield, Jhace Ren Mayfield, Sylvia Lacefield; great grandsons, Chase Lee Vermillion and Reese Dawson Vermillion.

He is survived by his sons, Michael Mayfield and wife, Tammy of Cordell, OK; Dennis Vermillion and wife, Lynda of Cordell, OK; Rick Vermillion and wife, Kathy of Watonga, OK; Jack Vermillion and wife, Carol of Sapulpa, OK; daughter, Almeta Schneider and husband, Fred of Weatherford, OK. He was called “Papaw” by 21 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Services are in care of Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home.