Michael Neale Mayo passed away on Monday May 19, 2014 following a long illness. He was 69 years old.

Neale was born May 15, 1945 and is preceded in death by his father and mother Dr. Lemuel Edouard Mayo, Jr, and Christine Foote Mayo of Portsmouth and also by his sister Susan Mayo Reynolds.

Neale graduated in 1963 from Churchland High School. He received his undergraduate degree in 1968 from The University of Virginia and his Masters' degree in Science (physics) from Old Dominion University. He worked as a contractor at NASA Langley Research Center and traveled the world working with a team of scientists measuring ozone and water vapor. Neale served his country in the U.S. Navy following his graduation from The University of Virginia.

A lifelong member of Trinity Episcopal Church, Portsmouth, Neale served there as a member of the Vestry, as an usher and an acolyte. He was a kind and gentle soul who enjoyed playing golf, playing the piano and guitar, listening to music and caring for family pets.

Neale is survived by his cousins; David Straeten and wife Carol of Virginia Beach, Jimmy Mayo and wife Dottie of Portsmouth, Judith Straeten of New York City and their families, his former wife Carol of Chesapeake as well as a niece and nephew.

The family wishes to express great appreciation for the loving caring and support provided to Neale by long time caregivers, April Prince, Jackie Davis, Shirley Kearney and Alberta Weaver.

Interment will take place at 10 a.m. on Tuesday June 3, 2014 in Oak Grove Cemetery, Portsmouth followed by a memorial service celebrating Neale's life at Trinity Episcopal Church, 500 Court Street, Portsmouth, VA at 11 a.m., The Reverend Kathleen Bobbitt will officiate. A reception will follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, the Portsmouth Humane Society, 4022 Seaboard Court, Portsmouth, VA 23701 or a charity of the giver's choice. Foster Funeral Home, Portsmouth is handling arrangements and condolences may be registered at bwfosterfuneralhome.com.