Anthony “Tony” Lee Mayo, age 68, of Vicksburg, Michigan, passed away suddenly on Sunday, June 14, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and friend, Tony was born on February 25, 1958, in Vicksburg, the son of J.R. and IdaBelle (Taylor) Mayo.
Tony married the love of his life, Julie, on August 11, 1984. Together they shared nearly 42 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Tony was known for his larger-than-life personality. He never met a stranger, enjoyed a good conversation, and always had a story, joke, or laugh to share.
Tony attended Vicksburg High School and later earned his diploma after joining the United States Army. Following high school, he proudly served his country for three years before continuing his military service in the National Guard.
He began his career at Simpson Paper Mill, later Fox River Paper Company, where he worked from August 1980 until the plant’s closure in March 2001. He then joined Pharmacia, which later became Pfizer, as a Boiler Engineer before transferring to Zoetis, where he remained until his retirement in 2021.
A lifelong learner, Tony returned to college in February 2008 and earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Management and Technology.
Service to his community was an important part of Tony’s life. He was a licensed Medical First Responder and dedicated many years as a volunteer firefighter with the Vicksburg Fire Department. He also worked closely with Vicksburg Middle School’s Basic Aid Training (B.A.T.) program, helping teach life-saving skills to students through a partnership sponsored by Fox River and the Vicksburg Fire Department.
Tony was preceded in death by his father, J.R. Mayo.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Julie Mayo; his son, Tyler (Arielle) Mayo; his mother, IdaBelle Mayo; his brother, Rick (Betty) Mayo; his grandchildren, Jake Mayo and Chase Harvey; and his nieces and nephews, Jason (Gwen) Mayo, Aimee (Mike) Johnston, and Mandy (Tim) Johnson.
Memorial contributions in Tony’s memory may be directed to the South County Fire Authority. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Tony will be remembered for his servant’s heart, his dedication to family and community, and his remarkable ability to bring a smile, a laugh, and a helping hand wherever he went.
In accordance with the family’s wishes cremation has taken place and public services will be held at the funeral home on Monday, June 22, 2026, with a time for visiting beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. Tony will be laid to rest at Vicksburg Cemetery following the service.
While at amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Tony’s guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.
The Mayo family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. 269-649-1697.
