Tommy Mayfield

Tommy Grant Mayfield died on November 12, 2020, at age 82. He was the son of Dowe H. and Shirley Mayfield, and he grew up in Post, Texas. From there he went to Texas Tech University, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in music education. He later obtained a Master’s degree in the same field from Eastern New Mexico University. He was a gifted artist and musician. His oil paintings focused on landscapes and still lifes and are noted for their expressive detail and intense color. Music, however, was his passion, and he excelled at it. He was drum major of the Texas Tech marching band in his sophomore year, and his talent as a clarinetist was on display in both orchestral and chamber performances. He loved both jazz and classical music, particularly that of the Romantic period. He devoted his career to music education, teaching at various schools in Texas and eastern New Mexico, including positions at Clovis and at Marshall, Texas. He retired in Hobbs simply because he liked the town and its people. He joined Temple Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir. He was a devoted Christian. Tommy had a dry wit and occasionally a gruff manner, but people who knew him well saw his kindness and his eagerness to share his love of music and good conversation. He is survived by his two brothers, Dowe H. Mayfield, Jr., of Lubbock and John Mayfield of Birmingham, Alabama.