It was with immense sadness that I learned recently of the death of Kevin Mayhew on Thursday 14 January – a man whose memory I will always treasure. I have met some wonderful and amazing people over the years, but few have been more remarkable in their achievements, and few have shaped my life more profoundly than he did. I owe my writing career to him, Kevin not only publishing my first book when a number of other companies had turned it down, but constantly encouraging me to produce new material and explore fresh horizons.
What can I say about Kevin to pay fitting tribute? I could talk about how, having left school at the age of 16, he was later to launch his own business, first as one half of Mayhew McCrimmon and subsequently, in 1976, on his own with Kevin Mayhew Ltd. I could talk about the incredible drive and vision with which he drove that company forward, offering a wonderful resource in doing so to Christians of every denomination, Kevin being a man genuinely open to all. I could talk about his passionate convictions, manifested in a lifetime of seeking social justice for all. I could talk of Kevin’s immense and easy-going charm that made everyone he met feel at ease within moments of meeting him. I could talk about the way he encouraged people to realise their full potential, at times coming across as demanding as he pushed them to aim as high as possible, but always having their best interests at heart.
All those offer a glimpse into the special individual Kevin was. But what I will remember most, and continue to give thanks for, is Kevin the person: his friendship, support and kindness – not just a truly exceptional individual but a good man, a generous man, a lovely man: someone who demonstrated his faith not through easy words but through actions.
Memories are too many to mention, not least among them hugely enjoyed evenings spent with Kevin and his equally lovely wife Barbara after occasional visits to the company’s headquarters. Above all, though, what stays with me is the way Kevin responded when I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2010. Every few weeks subsequently, until he himself was laid low some years later with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, he would unfailingly ring me to chat and offer support, even after he was diagnosed with that exceptionally cruel disease. That spoke volumes about the sort of person Kevin was, for he did so not as a matter of form or duty, but because he genuinely cared – because I, like so many others, mattered to him.
Kevin was a truly amazing man – someone who I will always consider myself incredibly fortunate to have met and counted as a friend. I owe him more than I can express, and will remember him with enormous affection, respect and gratitude. His passing leaves us profoundly impoverished, but his legacy leaves us rich beyond words.
So sorry to hear this, Nick. What a lovely tribute. He must have been a lovely man, and I know that you valued his encouragement and support. Condolences to his family and all who knew him.
Hi Val. Just seen your message. Thank you so much. xx