Woodrow Wilbert Mays Jr., affectionately known as Bill Mays, peacefully passed away on December 15, 2025, at the age of 82, in Dayton, Ohio.
Woodrow was born on April 2, 1943, in Meridian, Mississippi. He was the eldest son of Woodrow Wilbert Mays Sr. and Thelma Mays. Woodrow was a proud graduate of Southern University, where he laid the foundation for a life marked by service, intellect, and unwavering faith.
Throughout his life, Woodrow wore many hats and excelled in each role. He worked as a bus driver in Chicago, served as an ordained minister, became a college professor, and later dedicated himself as a Civil Rights investigator, standing firmly for justice and equality. He also honorably served his country in the United States Army.
A man of deep faith, Woodrow was a believer in Jesus Christ, and his life reflected his commitment to God, family, and community. He was known for his lively spirit, engaging personality, and gift for storytelling, which brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. An avid golfer, he found happiness on the course, but his greatest pride was always his family.
Woodrow was a devoted husband, a loving father, a protective presence, and a cherished grandfather. His wisdom, strength, and love will forever be remembered by those blessed to know him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow Wilbert Mays Sr. and Thelma Mays, and his brother, Gary Mays.
Woodrow leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Ethel Mays; his siblings, Jackie Christophe, Fredrick A. Mays, Sr. and Robert H. Mays, Sr.; his children, Darren Mays, Tonya Smith, Princie (Demetrius) Fuqua and Michael Davis; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy.
Though he has departed this life, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and take comfort knowing that he is now resting in the presence of the Lord.
A committal ceremony with military honors will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, at the Dayton National Cemetery as family and loved ones gather to honor his life and commend him into eternal rest.
Woodrow was born on April 2, 1943, in Meridian, Mississippi. He was the eldest son of Woodrow Wilbert Mays Sr. and Thelma Mays. Woodrow was a proud graduate of Southern University, where he laid the foundation for a life marked by service, intellect, and unwavering faith.
Throughout his life, Woodrow wore many hats and excelled in each role. He worked as a bus driver in Chicago, served as an ordained minister, became a college professor, and later dedicated himself as a Civil Rights investigator, standing firmly for justice and equality. He also honorably served his country in the United States Army.
A man of deep faith, Woodrow was a believer in Jesus Christ, and his life reflected his commitment to God, family, and community. He was known for his lively spirit, engaging personality, and gift for storytelling, which brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. An avid golfer, he found happiness on the course, but his greatest pride was always his family.
Woodrow was a devoted husband, a loving father, a protective presence, and a cherished grandfather. His wisdom, strength, and love will forever be remembered by those blessed to know him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow Wilbert Mays Sr. and Thelma Mays, and his brother, Gary Mays.
Woodrow leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Ethel Mays; his siblings, Jackie Christophe, Fredrick A. Mays, Sr. and Robert H. Mays, Sr.; his children, Darren Mays, Tonya Smith, Princie (Demetrius) Fuqua and Michael Davis; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy.
Though he has departed this life, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and take comfort knowing that he is now resting in the presence of the Lord.
A committal ceremony with military honors will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, at the Dayton National Cemetery as family and loved ones gather to honor his life and commend him into eternal rest.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Woodrow Wilbert Mays Jr., please visit our flower store.
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