https://my.gather.app/remember/jamar-mayo

With love in our hearts, we would like to announce the passing of Jamar Darran Mayo , who was known by all his loved ones as "Jay."

The intelligent and inquisitive Jay entered our hearts June 13, 2001, born to Tranisha D. Taliaferro and Hosea D. Mayo in Charlottesville, VA, ready to fill the world with his bright smile and 10 million questions.

Jay surfed throughout his early life, challenging anyone who would listen with his intelligence. He completed his secondary education at Charlottesville High School in June 2019, graduating with high honors. It was there that he picked up one of his unique talents: the viola. He then continued his education at the University of Virginia and Piedmont Virginia Community College pursuing a degree in mathematics. During his summer breaks, Jay would work alongside his grandmother in her upholstery shop learning the trade.

While exploring the world for the perfect career that would engage such an intellectual mind, Jay secured a unique position with the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, where he served as a SNAP Outreach Coordinator, indulging in one of his pastimes—helping others. In his spare time, he volunteered at the local homeless shelter in Charlottesville. He also studied the art of Taekwondo, achieving one of the highest ranks: the black belt. The determined and strong-minded Jay taught himself new hobbies, including knitting and culinary skills, and he created some of the best dishes and desserts for his loved ones.

Along with his parents, Tranisha and Hosea, Jay leaves behind some of the sweetest memories with his sister, Samyra N. Mayo, whom he affectionately referred to as "Tuffsy." She held a very special place in her brother's heart and had Jay wholly wrapped around her finger. He is also remembered by his trusted companion, Baine, affectionately known as "Little Man," his 100-pound Cane Corso. Jay's great-grandparents (maternal), Harold L. Jackson from Louisa, VA, and Etta M. Taliaferro, whom he referred to as "Grandmother" from Charlottesville, VA, are part of his legacy, along with his grandparents, Janice L. Taliaferro (maternal) and Linda Mayo (paternal). He is survived by his two aunts, Kamisha Taliaferro of Louisa, VA, and Sharelle Taliaferro from Fluvanna, VA, as well as two special cousins, Kimani Taliaferro, who was like a brother to him, and Amina Taliaferro, to whom he took pride in being a big cousin. Jay also leaves behind many other aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will truly miss him.

Our son, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend. Thank you, for being you. We appreciate the kindness you shared with everyone you encountered. Your bright smile and witty sense of humor was unlike any other. The time we spent and the memories we created with you will forever be cherished. Jay , you were amazing! And we will always love you!

The Taliaferro and Mayo family would like to thank everyone who has reached out. We ask that you continue to pray for our strength during this difficult time. Special prayers to Tranisha and Hosea as they continue their life journey mourning the loss of their son.

Services will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. Pleasant View Baptist Church, in Columbia, VA 23038. Burial will follow at Springfield Baptist Church in Gordonsville, VA where we will lay Jay to rest.

To the Mayo family, we at  D. D. Watson offer our most sincere sympathy and condolences. Our prayer continues to be that your abiding faith in God will lend to you a measure of comfort that will strengthen and sustain you during your time of sorrow.