When it comes to the layout of Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth, Derone Mayfield knows the campus like the intricate lines in the palms of his hands. So does his brother, Dereak. And so does their baby brother, Kevin. Collectively, the Mayfield brothers have been a part of Texas Health Fort Worth for nearly 75 years, and they have no plans to leave anytime soon.
Serving as the hospital’s audiovisual technician, Derone, the eldest brother, has been with Texas Health Fort Worth for 27 years. Dereak, an electronic communications technician, has been there for the past 25 years, while Kevin, a valet manager, has worked at Texas Health Fort Worth for 22 year.
“The Mayfield family’s dedication to their colleagues and our visitors is a strong testament to the culture at Texas Health Fort Worth,” said Joseph DeLeon, hospital president. “Although it’s rare for one family to collectively work in one location for nearly a century, it’s quite common for Texas Health employees to possess compassion and commitment. To know that individuals choose us — patients and employees alike — means so much, and we appreciate it.”
All three find enjoyment and gratification working at the hospital. To them, their colleagues are like family. When Dereak and Kevin heard that Derone helped save the life of co-worker Cheryl Calvert, it came as no surprise.
“That’s just Derone. He’s extremely observant, and he can always tell when something is out of place,” Kevin said.
Dereak added that Derone is “often in the right place at the right time, all of the time.”
The brothers took a moment out of their busy schedules to describe why Texas Health Fort Worth is their second home.
What led you to Texas Health Fort Worth?
Derone: I’ve always been interested in the medical field, but I’m also good with electronics, so I decided to do both. I’m responsible for setting up meetings for administrative leaders and physicians on the medical staff.
Dereak: I have a passion for fixing things. I make sure the paging systems work, I keep the code blue systems operational, and I constantly test the TV signals. Those are just a few of my responsibilities.
What is your favorite part of the job, and the biggest challenge?
Kevin: I manage a lot of young employees, and for many, it’s their first job. I’m in a position to educate and nurture others. Seeing these young people advance and move up the job ladder is a good feeling.
Derone: I enjoy meeting people, and I definitely love a challenge.
Do you consider yourself a guardian angel?
Derone: I think we all are guardian angels in some shape and form. We never know what our roles will be in life. I do know that when we receive our calling, we need to respond.
Dereak: Our family has a strong faith and belief in God. I think God gives us all a calling. Some of us listen and others do not. Working in a hospital, I’ve learned not to take anything for granted, because anything can happen.
How do you do your life’s best work at Texas Health?
Derone: All three of us don’t mind a challenge, and we don’t mind learning new things. That’s the only way you continue to grow. I solve problems daily, and when I see the smiles on the faces of my co-workers, it keeps me motivated.
Dereak: I’m always helping others, at work and at home, but assisting someone isn’t always tied to a paycheck. I find gratification knowing that I’ve helped someone in need.
Kevin: Always being willing to help others is a priority. I started in the hospital basement doing laundry. Now, I’m in management in a completely different department, but I never lost sight of the importance of being selfless. Working at Texas Health Fort Worth has been the best decision I’ve ever made.
What’s something unique about your family not many people would know?
Derone: We went to high school with Kirk Franklin, a famous gospel singer. We’ve worked with Betsy Price, a former Fort Worth mayor, and we’ve met several professional baseball and football players. So many famous people have come through these doors!
