Curley Lee Mamon Sr.

Curley Lee Mamon was born on August 19, 1950 in Glendora, Mississippi to Ernest (Jack) and Frank Ollie (Holmes) Mamon. He departed this life on March 15, 2017 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. His parents along with Curley’s four other siblings, Minnie, Walter, Frankie, and Ernest preceded him in death. Curley burst onto the scene as the youngest weighing about 15 pounds. He grew in statue, standing well over 6 feet before reaching the age of 18. Curley confessed his belief and accepted Jesus Christ at an early age and recommitted his life years later. He grew up in the Delta and would share stories of his youth, the good and bad times of growing up in the South during the 60’s. He proudly, shared with others, how after working all week long in the cotton field, he was excited to get paid and go out on the town. Curley married his home-town sweetheart Ethel Mae Benford and moved to Chicago in 1969. He worked several jobs, ending his career in Security/Law Enforcement. He arduously worked the projects of Chicago, including Cabrini-Greene and Robert Taylor Homes, taking the time to pull over the company vehicle and chat with “youngsters” in the area, saying, “stay out of trouble and do the right thing.” Yet, still understanding his duty was to protect the neighborhood, so there were times when he seemingly was the “bad guy.” Curley was an avid sports fan: Along with attempting to become a member of his famed Chicago Bears, he also, playfully known as “Tiny” competed and won several competitions throughout the Chicago area as a member of the “Devils” softball team. Curley retired due to physical limitations and moved to Waynesville, MO shortly after the death of his mother in 2004. His name brought smiles to many in the Ozark town and surrounding medical communities. Whenever he introduced himself, most would say, “Is that really your name?” And he would say “yes, just like Curley from the Three Stooges.” Although he was physically a giant, it’s his kindness, his smile, the joy he carried within that made the difference for those around him. No matter where he went, whether in the medical waiting room, church, or just sitting in his home watching his daily doses of “Law and Order,” the “Heat of the Night,” and “The Andy Griffin Show” there was a “pleasantness” that surrounded him. Simply said, he was gracious and loved by many. He was greatly interested in the lives of his grandchildren, praying for them daily, and looking forward to seeing them grow, become adults. In fact, he told the Lord in 2010 during heart surgery that he was not ready to go, that he wanted to see his grandkids grow up. His son, his “mini-me”, Curley Lee Mamon, Jr preceded him in death. Curley leaves to cherish his memories: his loving soul-mate, Ethel (Benford) Mamon, Wichita, KS; son, Willie (Berniece) Benford, Wichita, KS; three daughters, Patricia (Erick) Gordon, Waynesville, MO; Barbara Mamon, Waynesville, MO; and Katina Mamon, Wichita, KS; ten grandchildren, Frances, Tinique, Kendrick, Christina, Laquisha, Ned, Naudia, Nicholas, Raquan and Ja’Juan; eight great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Services were held at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 2017 in The River Church of Waynesville. Pastor Gary Davis opened with prayer and the congregation sang “Every Praise” and “Great Are You Lord”. Patricia Goodrich read scripture and recalled her wonderful memories of Curley. Ester Malone and Joanne Johnson both provided special musical selections. Pastor Joe Johnson gave words of encouragement and two of Curley’s daughters gave a beautiful tribute to their father. Pastor Larry Johnson gave the eulogy and serving as escorts were Emmett Williams, Ruthina Horn, Michael Jackson, Dwight Jackson, Ernest L. Willingham, Ira Willingham and Darren Swanson. Serving as honorary escorts were Tommie “Chuck” Bishop, Kendrick Benford, Willie Johnson, Willie Williams, Robert Wilson and James Johnson. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Curley Mamon and may be left at the funeral home.

Curley Lee Mamon Sr.

August 19, 1950 - March 15, 2017