Mayota Arline Ross' Obituary
Mayota Arline Ross, age 94, passed from this life on October 10, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona. Born on December 23, 1931, in Bucklin, Missouri, she was the cherished daughter of Ray and Marjorie Mendenhall and one of four beloved siblings.
Mayota lived a life rooted in simplicity, warmth, and devotion. A true homebody at heart, she found her greatest joy in the company of her family, who meant the world to her. Her gentle spirit and quick wit brought laughter and light to every room she entered. She was a loving mother, a proud grandmother, and a doting great-grandmother—roles she embraced with grace and unwavering affection.
Her love for nature was evident in the way she cared for her garden, tending to flowers with the same tenderness she showed to those around her. Whether sharing stories, offering a smile, or simply sitting quietly among loved ones, Mayota’s presence was a gift. She leaves behind a legacy of love, humor, and quiet strength that will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.
She is preceded in death by her spouse Gene Ross; parents Ray and Marjorie Mendenhall; three siblings Dwane Mendenhall, Reve Rooney, and Deoma Schnoor. Left to cherish Mayota’s memory are her children Machelle Ross, Sheila Garman and her spouse Ron, Jeanne Ross, and Greg Ross; grandchildren Niki Branstetter and her spouse Jeff, Katie Carpenter and her spouse Jeff, and Logan Garman and his spouse Jordan; great grandchildren Cale and Addison Branstetter, Janie and Carson Carpenter, and Ryatt and Riggs Garman; along with other family members and friends who will cherish the memories’ they have with Mayota.
Celebration of Mayota's life will take place on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 10:00am at Floral Havens Funeral Home Chapel located at 6500 S. 129th E. Ave., Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Burial will follow the service at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens.
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