Berdine Mitchell Mayes Sr.

Berdine Mitchell Mayes Sr. "Butch", age 71, passed away Monday, March 12, 2012 at his residence in Morriston. Butch was born in Elmira, N.Y. to Andrew and Jeanne Mayes. After living in Miami, Fl. for most of his life, he moved 27 years ago to Levy county.

He was a member of the Meadowbrook Church in Ocala, Fl. He was the founder of the Mid Tennessee Historical Society and the Mid Florida Historical Society in Ocala, Fl. , he enjoyed fishing, playing guitar and singing in his band ,"Butch South and the Southern Surprise".

He spent a lot of time metal detecting. He is the author of "The Ultimate Metal Detecting Guide" and has many artifacts on display at the Williston Public Library.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years; Cheryl Mayes, his sons; Berdine Mitchell Mayes Jr. , Danny Akina (Tatum), David Akina, Andrew Mayes (Amy), his daughters; Tammy Navarro (Joseph), DeeAnn Akina Wallace, Amie Mayes Douglas, his brother; Johnny Mayes, his sister: Maurleen Weigand, 11 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and many special friends.

A visitation will be held at Knauff Funeral Home in Williston on Friday, March 16, 2012 from 1-3 pm and funeral services will begin at 3. Arrangements are under the direction of Knauff Funeral Home in Williston (352)528-3481.