Dennis Dudley Mayhew

Dennis Dudley Mayhew, born on October 12, 1950, delivered by Dr. Enloe at Enloe Hospital in Chico, California, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and loved ones on September 18, 2025, at Enloe Hospital in Chico, CA.

Dennis was raised in Willows, California, and graduated from Willows High School in 1969. Following his graduation, he proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army’s Old Guard, exemplifying dedication, honor, and respect through his service.

He met the love of his life, Pam, in Chico, and they were married in 1983 and in 2004 moved from Chico to the home they built in Durham, CA.  Dennis went on to enjoy a remarkable career as an FAA commercial pilot for more than 40 years, flying as an agricultural pilot and later as a single-engine air tanker pilot fighting wildfires.

In his free time, Dennis loved to take to the skies for pleasure flights, ride his motorcycles, and spend time fishing. He was also a devoted “dog dad” to their three beloved doodles—Cooper, Lily, and Abby, affectionately known as “the kids.”

Dennis will be remembered as a beloved husband, dog dad, brother, uncle, godfather and friend. He touched the lives of many with his warmth, humor, and generous spirit. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Pamela Mayhew; sisters Pat Chittenden of Oregon and Jean Perrine of South Carolina; Cooper, Lily and Abby and many nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

A celebration of Dennis’s life will be held at Ranchaero Airport in Chico on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Guests are asked to arrive by 12:45 p.m. for military honors.