Beloved band director and grandfather dies in wreck, Georgia reports say. ‘A great man’
A beloved Georgia high school band director and grandfather died in a wreck, state troopers and family members say.
Carl Michial Mayhall, 70, died on Tuesday, March 28, according to a crash report from the Georgia State Patrol. Mayhall was attempting to cross Highway 38 in Thomasville but failed to yield to an oncoming car. The two collided, sending Mayhall’s car across the median and back before it was stopped by a guard rail.
Mayhall’s car was struck on the driver’s side, troopers said. He was taken to Archbold Medical Center, where he died.
The other driver was also taken to Archbold Medical Center, according to the crash report.
Mayhall was a band director for nearly 50 years, his obituary said. He spent 29 years as band director for Thomas County Central High School before retiring.
Thomas County Central High School officials did not immediately respond to McClatchy News’ request for comment on March 30.
Mayhall was also a husband and father, and he leaves behind nine grandchildren and step-grandchildren, according to the obituary.
Former students and loved ones shared tributes for Mayhall on social media.
“He was a father figure to me and so many others, & one of the biggest personal cheerleaders I’ve ever had in my corner. He was uplifting, encouraging, and unconditionally loving, but could also set you straight with one solidly stern look,” one student wrote on Facebook. “The world lost a great man yesterday.”
“So incredibly heartbreaking. He was a treasured colleague who epitomized the traits of a master teacher and leader,” another person wrote. “He impacted the lives of so many students in Thomasville leaving a lasting legacy.”
“I would not have a career as a musician if it weren’t for this man. I owe him everything,” a third person shared.
Thomasville is about 200 miles south of Atlanta.
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