“If I walk in the pathway of duty. If I work ‘til the close of the day. I shall see the great King in His beauty, when I’ve gone the last mile of the way . . .”
The life of Deaconess Billie C. Mahone began in Blytheville, Arkansas on September 9, 1940, to the proud parents Mrs. Deonia (Washington) Piggie and Mr. Joe Washington, both of whom preceded her in death. “Mrs. Billie” as she was affectionately known as received her formal education with the Miami Dade County Public School District.
In 1955, Billie relocated to the Homestead/Florida City Community. Realizing a need for developing a personal relationship and divine guidance from the Lord, she joined in fellowship with Greater New Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church. Still seeking even a closer walk with God, she later joined in fellowship with Covenant Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend W.L. Strange. It was during this time that she found one of her greatest desirers, was serving the Lord with all her mind, body, and soul. While serving at Covenant, having a desire to for a husband, she went to her pastor for divine guidance and prayer and shortly thereafter, the Lord sent the love of her life, W.M. Mahone who swept her off her feet, and after an extraordinary and charming courtship the two were joined in Holy Matrimony in 1981.
At Covenant, Sister Mahone served faithfully in many capacities: Director of the Youth Usher Board, Sunday School teacher, the Mass Choir, President of the Golden Girls, the Mission Ministry, and the Deaconess Ministry. In addition, Deaconess Mahone and Deacon Mahone would feed the homeless meals on Thanksgiving.
Mrs. Billie was well known in her community as the lady from “The Afro” who cooked some of the best cheeseburgers and fish sandwiches. She later began working as a receptionist for Range Funeral Homes.
In 2000, Deaconess and Deacon Mahone decided to relocate to Valdosta, Georgia, where they happily joined in fellowship with First Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Reverend Barfield. While serving at First Antioch, she also became a member of the Deaconess Ministry, the Homeless Outreach Program, and the Clothing Closet. In 2011, after the passing of her only beloved son, Hubert Anthony Major, Sister and Deacon Mahone decided to moved back to Florida City, FL and rejoined Covenant Missionary Baptist Church.
Death is the key that opens life to eternity…On Saturday, July 20, 2024, with her beloved husband by her bedside, after having “fought a good fight”, after having “Kept the faith and finishing her course,” Deaconess Billie Mahone, heard the voice of the Lord say, “well done thy good and faithful servant.” She laid down her sword and shield to study the war of life, no more.
Left to cherish vivid memories that will be permanently etched in our hearts and thoughts is her devoted husband, Deacon W.M. Mahone; her two grandchildren, Antoinette Major and Antavieus Adams. Six great-grandchildren, Antavieus Jr., Ashleigh, April, Antavione, A’Mariyah, Marcus, Carmel and two great great-grandchildren.
In addition, Mrs. Billie leaves a legacy of memories with her special nieces: Jennifer Dixon and Annette Mahone-Bowles (Chris). Sisters-in-law: Mattie Neal, Bobby Jean Maine and Jeanette Maine. One brother-in-law, Redman Maine. Her granddaughter’s mother, Fannie Shaw. Her bonus son, Elder Steve Trice McDowell and her bonus daughter and grandchildren: Minister Cathy Twyne (Vernon), Derrick and Rodrick “Scooter” Simmons. Godchildren: Pastor Alphonso D. Bryant, Sr. (Ashley), Jameel Brady, Sandra Gaines and Melody Stover. And a host of nieces, nephews, and a host of sorrowing relatives and friends.
The celebration of life service will be held Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at Covenant Baptist Church, 1055 NW 6th Avenue, Florida City, FL.
Graveside service will be held Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. at Southview Cemetery, 2065 Clay Road, Valdosta, GA 31601. Rev. Albert L. Barfield, officiating.
Public viewing will be held Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Stevens Funeral Home.
We Solicit Your Prayers for The MAHONE Family.
Due to COVID-19, Stevens Funeral Home will be enforcing social distancing and following the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. We ask that anyone entering the building and attending any funeral events to please wear a mask.
Stevens Funeral Home of Valdosta is serving The MAHONE family with care, compassion, love and uncompromising dignity.
My condolences to the family! We will miss our beloved sister in Christ. My prayers and thoughts are with the family.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.