Spencer Mayfield, a renowned coach for John F. Kennedy and Nansemond River high schools, passed away on Saturday.

Mayfield led successful programs at both schools and had a record of 411-170 in 25 years, including two state titles in 1974 and 1983 at John F. Kennedy. At Nansemond River, he added two state championships in 1992 and 1995.

Mayfield was known for his strict coaching style that led to him getting the best out of his players. Whether it be a practice or a game, Mayfield demanded the best from his players, and it showed in the win-loss column.

What he enjoyed most about coaching was watching his players grow into men. Some of the players he has coached over the years have become administrators, coaches and pastors, among many other careers.

“He was a good disciplinarian,” said Donald Richardson, a close friend of Mayfield. “He was a strong person. All his players thought so highly of him.”

Richardson was a graduate of Suffolk High School in 1976. He remembers being offered a basketball scholarship to Elizabeth City State University, but his grades didn’t quite meet the standard the school was looking for.

However, ECSU was Mayfield’s alma mater, and a recommendation from Mayfield allowed Richardson to attend the school that changed his life.

“Mayfield made it possible for me to attend ECSU,” Richardson said. “I’ll never forget what he has done for me.”

That was only one of many instances in which Mayfield has had an impact on the lives of players he coached, or even some he didn’t coach.

One thing Mayfield enjoyed recently was watching his players’ children grow to do big things. Harry Giles Jr., a former player under Mayfield, has a son that was considered the No. 1 player in the high school class of 2016. Harry Giles III currently attends Duke University.

“It was good for him to be able to see a son of a player he once coached do big things,” Richardson said. “We spoke a couple of months ago about it, and that’s just one of the accomplishments that came with all the things he has done and seen his players experience.”

In Mayfield’s playing days, he started at point guard for Suffolk’s Booker T. Washington High School and for ECSU in college.

Spencer is survived by his wife, Dr. Carolyn S. Mayfield; three daughters Dr. Kerrita K. Mayfield, Karrin A. Mayfield and Dr. Kellie E. Mayfield; three brothers, Spencer Lee Mayfield (Theaudry), Spencer Mayfield and Chris Shelton; and many other relatives.

A wake will be held for Mayfield at 6:30 p.m. Friday at First Baptist Church, 112 Mahan St. The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the church.