Elmer Hughes Mayes, 92, of North Port, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, at Tidewell Hospice House. He was born in Barron County, Kentucky on October 2, 1933, the son of John William Marlin Mayes and Gola Elizabeth Wheeler Mayes.
Mr. Mayes was a United States Navy veteran who served during the Korean War aboard the USS Polk County LST 1084 from 1952-1954. He was a proud Disabled American Veteran.
He married Edna Ozella "Rosie" Compton on September 2, 1955, and the couple had recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. For the past four years, Mr. and Mrs. Mayes resided with their daughter and son-in-law in North Port.
A resident of North Port, he was known for his warm personality and love of conversation, especially over a good cup of coffee. He enjoyed riding his bike through the neighborhood, often stopping to visit with friends and neighbors. Throughout his life, he also found joy in old cars, horses, dogs, and working outdoors. Endlessly curious, he embraced new technology and was often among the first to bring the latest devices into his work on the road.
Mr. Mayes retired as an owner/operator for Central Transport. Prior to the birth of their daughter, he and his wife owned and operated two restaurants together. He was a hard worker, and a gentle soul who ensured his family always had what they needed. One of his greatest joys was spending quality time with his daughter and granddaughter, sharing his knowledge with patience and pride. He will be remembered for his kindness, curiosity, and the deep love he held for his family and friends.
Survivors include his wife, Rosie; his daughter, Theresa Ford, and her husband, Tim; his granddaughter, Elizabeth Heinkel, and her husband, Garrett, of Noblesville, Indiana; his brothers Earl Mayes, Irvin Mayes, and Ed Mayes; and his sister, Joyce Holtkamp. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ernie Mayes, and his sister Thelma Schlabach.
Mr. Mayes will be cremated, and his remains will be placed in a columbarium at Sarasota National Cemetery. Graveside rites with full Military Honors will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to Tidewell Hospice 5955 Rand Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34238
Mr. Mayes was a United States Navy veteran who served during the Korean War aboard the USS Polk County LST 1084 from 1952-1954. He was a proud Disabled American Veteran.
He married Edna Ozella "Rosie" Compton on September 2, 1955, and the couple had recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. For the past four years, Mr. and Mrs. Mayes resided with their daughter and son-in-law in North Port.
A resident of North Port, he was known for his warm personality and love of conversation, especially over a good cup of coffee. He enjoyed riding his bike through the neighborhood, often stopping to visit with friends and neighbors. Throughout his life, he also found joy in old cars, horses, dogs, and working outdoors. Endlessly curious, he embraced new technology and was often among the first to bring the latest devices into his work on the road.
Mr. Mayes retired as an owner/operator for Central Transport. Prior to the birth of their daughter, he and his wife owned and operated two restaurants together. He was a hard worker, and a gentle soul who ensured his family always had what they needed. One of his greatest joys was spending quality time with his daughter and granddaughter, sharing his knowledge with patience and pride. He will be remembered for his kindness, curiosity, and the deep love he held for his family and friends.
Survivors include his wife, Rosie; his daughter, Theresa Ford, and her husband, Tim; his granddaughter, Elizabeth Heinkel, and her husband, Garrett, of Noblesville, Indiana; his brothers Earl Mayes, Irvin Mayes, and Ed Mayes; and his sister, Joyce Holtkamp. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ernie Mayes, and his sister Thelma Schlabach.
Mr. Mayes will be cremated, and his remains will be placed in a columbarium at Sarasota National Cemetery. Graveside rites with full Military Honors will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to Tidewell Hospice 5955 Rand Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34238
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