Stephen Elbert Mayfield

Tulsa has lost its very own Robert Redford. The man, the myth, the legend, born Stephen Elbert Mayfield, passed away quietly on May 11th, 2016 among loved ones. Surely if you knew or worked with Steve Mayfield, this possibly wasn’t the first time you’ve heard this, but you very likely could’ve heard a variation including Kevin Costner or Brad Pitt. However, many of his students simply knew him as a more serious “Mr. Mayfield.”

Steve was born January 15th, 1947 to Evelyn and Elbert Mayfield and the world would never be the same, so we were told constantly. Steve was raised in Tulsa, attended Rogers High School, and completed his education at NSU and OSU.

Steve Mayfield spent a majority of his education career in the Tulsa Public Schools system, initially teaching at Marion Anderson and then as assistant principal of Bell. Eventually, Steve went on to become Principal of Byrd Middle School, Memorial High School, Edison Preparatory School and Cascia Hall Preparatory school. At Edison he consolidated the middle and high schools and led the development of the magnet program. Steve then progressed to the Education Services Center where he wore many hats as he served as Chief of Staff, Area Superintendent, and Lead Principal for all TPS Secondary Schools. Throughout his entire career in the public and private school system, he also taught several classes at Tulsa Community College.

Steve is survived by a loving family: his wife of 45 years, Debby Mayfield, his brother Ronnie Mayfield, his son and wife, Jason and Sarah Mayfield, his daughter and husband, Holly and Paul Miller, and last but not least, his grandchildren, Christina Miller, Elijah Miller, Chloe Miller, and Dylan Mayfield. This of course, is among his extended family, friends, and former students.

Services will be held at Asbury United Methodist Church on Wednesday May 18th at 11 AM.
The family suggests that any memorial considerations be sent to any Cancer or Education charity of your choice.