Jay Wayne Mayes

For years, Jay has been walking with Jesus. Together, they’d sing, talk, and Jay might even try out a few new jokes. On Monday, December 30, 2024, Jesus looked over and said “Jay, we’re closer to my house than yours. Why don’t you just go home with me?” Jay had been waiting for that invitation and quickly agreed. He’s now singing with the angels and saints.

Jay was born in Texas City in 1967 to Ron and Nelda Mayes. He joined the family as the baby brother to Scott. He’s been smiling ever since, and he’s been sharing his joy with others. Even introverts felt comfortable around him.

When college time came, he gave the Aggies a chance, then transferred to Abilene Christian where he met Lisa Lowe. The two were married in 1989 and were blessed with three children: Austin, Tyler, and Lacy Mayes. Tyler brought Leah Kerney into the fold a couple of years ago. And Tyler and Leah magically turned Jay and Lisa into grandparents when Willow Grace Mayes was born.

Along the way, Jay plied various work roles, in several places. He worked in Ft. Worth, Waco, Paris, Abilene, and Austin, TX. He especially enjoyed his jobs in the Hospitality industry. In Abilene, he worked in the insurance industry and at local companies like Milsoft and, most recently, Market Street, where he found joy in helping people.  Jay is survived by his wife, his parents, his brother and sister-in-law, and all three children, a daughter-in-law and one granddaughter. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, outlaws and friends.

Visitation for Jay Wayne Mayes will be held at Piersall Funeral home (733 Butternut) from 5:00 to 6:30 pm on January 3rd. A celebration of Jay’s life will be held at the Southern Hills Church of Christ auditorium (3666 Buffalo Gap Road) at 10 am, Saturday, January 4th. Burial will follow the service at the Buffalo Gap Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Jay listed several nonprofits that he valued. A donation in his memory would be a great honor. Please consider especially: New Mexico Christian Children’s Home (NMCCH.org), Angel Flight South Central (angelflightsc.org), or Hendrick Hospice Care (hendrickhealth.org).