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BORN
1963
DIED
2026
FUNERAL HOME
Jerald "Jerry" Mays Obituary
Jerald "Jerry" Robert Mays, a loving follower of Christ, unexpectedly passed away, Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the age of 62, following complications from a noninvasive heart surgery.
Loving husband for 41 years of Tracy Mays (nee Cox); dear father of Jordan (Carlos) Espinosa and Kendall Lynn Mays; beloved grandfather “Pops” of Enzo Robert Espinosa Mays, Teo Carlos Espinosa Mays and Baby Espinosa Mays on the way; son of Donald (Duck) Sr. and Saraetta (Sally) Mays (nee Skinner); brother of Donald Jr. (Donna) Mays, Kecia Mays and Lucie (Rick) Sulewski; son-in-law of Tom (Lynn) Cox; brother-in-law of Tim (Karen) Cox and Leslie Keller; loving uncle, cousin and friend to many.
Jerry devoted his life to his family, making choices for the betterment of them. Jerry spent 4 years in the United States Air Force, and worked hard to be number 1 in his class so that he could select his military base in order to be close to his parents and Tracy’s parents in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. Following his service in the U.S. Military, Jerry went to work for Glaxo Pharmaceuticals for 35 years. Jerry dedicated his life to being a generous provider for his wife, his daughters, his son-in-law and later grandchildren. He made sure that everyone was cared for and loved always. Following retirement in 2024, Jerry watched his beautiful grandsons weekly, traveled to many places, rode his bike and worked out frequently and took up golf in his spare time (or tried to.) One of his great passions in life was spending quality time with family members and friends.
His loss is completely devastating to his family and friends, who will forever celebrate the life that he lived and grieve the life he should’ve continued to have for many years to come. However, we take comfort in knowing that Jerry is with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and will be our Guardian Angel. Although Jerry was called home way too soon, his joy, his zest for life and his outgoing, wonderful personality will live on in his wife, daughters, grandchildren, family and friends. One of Jerry’s favorite movie quotes is “what is grief, if not love persevering.” We will continue to love like Jerry and we will see him again someday.
Services: Memorial Service at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Visitation Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 2 until 5 p.m. If desired, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Friends and family may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
Memories and Condolences
for Jerald "Jerry" Mays
David Good
March 24, 2026
I was absolutely shocked to hear of the passing of Jerry.
I had the good fortune to work for Jerry as a Hospital Sales Specialist, for GSK in Kansas City.
What I remember about Jerry is that he was not tall of stature, but always extremely physically fit, the kind of guy you wanted on your team and not against you.
He always had lots of energy, lots of ideas and wanted to bring everyone in on the discussion. We worked hard and saw success. I remember Jerry one time telling me, “I may expect a lot out of you, but never more and then I am willing to give myself.” That always stuck with me.
Just recently, Jerry and I had reconnected through our employment with STEM. I messaged him during a conference call telling him he looked great and I thought the gray beard was becoming. I was looking forward to working with Jerry in a whole new realm when I heard the news of his passing.
I did not know the family personally, but thank them for being supportive of Jerry to give those of us who worked with him and for him a wonderful, caring, talented, intelligent, driven, successful, and kind hearted man. Men like Jerry are few and far between and as I’ve been told and have heard, Jerry was one of the “Good Guys”.
My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Mark, Casey, & Payton Hencken
February 28, 2026
Praying over the family during this time. Sending hugs and love from afar.
Mike & Marilyn Schaefer
February 28, 2026
We are so sorry to hear of Jerry's unexpected passing. We knew him through Kendall and all of the sporting activities she shared with our daughter Katie. Jerry was a great coach for the kids, always patient, encouraging and never overbearing or too focused on wins alone. We parents grew strong relationships, cheering on our girls at many games and tournaments. As time passed and the girls grew, we saw him less, but there was always a smile and shared memories when seeing him. A good man lost way too early.
Jan Buesching
February 25, 2026
My heart is breaking for each of Jerry’s wonderful girls. Tracy, I can only imagine your loss. Your Jerry was wonderful!!!!! There was such a happy, loving energy surrounding him. I loved that you had your dressing table with all those tiny perfume bottles in your master bedroom. You will always be his Princess!!!! Jordan and Kendall, your dad simply adored you!!!! Every time I saw him with either of you he beamed with joy. I pray you always feel his undying love and devotion. You are each and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. I love each of you and I am so tremendously sorry for your most grievous loss. Jan Buesching
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Mike Mitchell
February 25, 2026
To all of Team Mays
I am so sorry to hear of Jerry’s unexpected passing. He was a great leader and mentor to so many people including me. This is such an incredible loss and please accept my sincerest condolences.
Prayers and love for all!
Mike Mitchell
Kim lee
February 25, 2026
We a so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad and loving husband. Such a beautiful and loving person Jerry was. Please know we are praying for all of you at this difficult time.
Kevin and Pam Cummings
February 24, 2026
Jerry and I go back to early childhood. We grew up at the same time. Competing in all kinds of sports. We mostly liked competing together against others who would underestimate us because of our size. We usually won or kept on playing until we did. That was Jerry. Never give up or give in. As we grew older we didn’t talk or get together much but I was able to talk to him right before his operation. I’m so glad I stop to see him that day. You are one in a million Till we meet again Keep cheering us all on. Love you
Kevin
Robin Lewis
February 23, 2026
I am so saddened to hear about Jerry and send love and prayers to Tracy and family. I had the pleasure of working with Jerry in multiple capacities over the years at GSK. Jerry had a smile that would light the room and a heart full of love. He worked hard and always put his family first. The love he had for Tracy, his kids, and his family was front and center. I’ll cherish memories of team trips where we celebrated the hard work and laughed hard. Jerry was an extraordinary person who I will miss dearly. Thoughts and prayers to the Mays family.
Lloyd Peever
February 22, 2026
I was very fortunate to work for Jerry at GSK. He was an incredible teacher, always looking to lead and develop his people. I have fond memories spending 4 hours with him at a Hampton Inn in Baton Rouge until midnight preparing for a meeting at FMOL the next morning. His complete understanding of what was needed to be successful and his desire to help his people will always be his legacy. Jerry could not have been more proud of his family in his conversations with me. One of my proudest moments with Jerry was over dinner with him in New Orleans. He and I had dinner at Mr. B’s Bistro and at the end of the meal the waitress brought over the dessert menu and explained the highlights including bread pudding and crème brûlée. In pharma we never have budget left for dessert, but Jerry’s eyes opened widely at a “dessert iced wine” on the menu that he recognized from a prior GSK Winners Circle trip. He went to the restroom as the final check came back to the table and I personally bought the iced wine which was waiting for him when he returned. He was in awe, and I knew it brought back fond memories with his wife of that trip and I could not have been more grateful for all that he did for me in my development. May we all toast Jerry for his leadership and friendship. Thank you to his family for sacrificing the time that he spent with us, away from you.
Nick Trankito
February 22, 2026
I had the pleasure to work with Jerry for years at GSK. What a wonderful person. He will be missed.
Rick Lord
February 22, 2026
I'm so sorry to learn of Jerry's sudden passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Jerry was an amazing man to work for when I was at GSK. I still remember days working in the field together and the conversations we had, he knew how to make you feel valued. Jerry was genuine, you always knew where you stood with him and he cared. I still remember our team trips to Table Rock Lake and our whole team driving in a bus at the Six Flags for the meeting. Those were the best trips! I am blessed to have known Jerry.
Susan Slamans
February 21, 2026
I'm so very sorry for your loss. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. May the Lord surround you with His comfort and peace.
Susan Fowler Slamans
Class of 1981
Dan Lovin
February 21, 2026
Duck and Sally I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I pray you feel God’s comfort, love and strength during these difficult times. Love you both.
Dan and Sue Lovin
Angela Hailes
February 20, 2026
Jerry was dedicated to his family and the teams he led at GSK. He treated those he worked with like family and strived to ensure his team was connected and cared for. I benefited from his leadership and training in account management. He also supported my entry into leadership and checked-in from time to time for work anniversaries or well wishes for a happy birthday. I celebrate the life Jerry lived and will remember him as a wonderful family man and thoughtful leader. My thoughts and prayers are with the Mays family.
Mayra Centeno
February 20, 2026
My deepest condolences to the Mays family. I met Jerry when I was at GlaxoSmithKline. Jerry was one of regional directors for the strategic accounts. From day 1 Jerry showed me kindness, support and was always encouraging. It was clear that his family came first. He would light up when he spoke of them. There was this sweetness and genuineness that came through with every conversation. I'm really sorry for your loss. May God provide you all comfort and strength. You will be in my prayers. God bless you all! RIP Jerry...you left the world a better place. ❤
Patricia Voss
February 20, 2026
So sorry for your unexpected loss. Anyone could tell just by looking that his whole world revolved around his family. Hold each other close. Keep your memories alive of all the good things you share because you had such a great man in your lives.
Tom Robinson
February 20, 2026
Jerry hired me at GlaxoSmithKline. I will always remember him first as a great man and second as a wonderful boss and friend. The world lost someone very special when we lost Jerry. I’m blessed to have known him.
Kurt Schoen
February 20, 2026
Tracy, Kendall, Jordan and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Jerry’s sad, untimely and unexpected passing. He was a terrific mentor to so many people including me. He was a great, caring manager that always cared for his people. Please accept my sincerest condolences.
John Moskoff
February 20, 2026
A great man has passed! Even though I never worked directly for Jerry, he was always part of my management team. Always had great advice for me and helped me solve numerous problems.
Amy Felten (Horner)
February 20, 2026
Jerry was one of a kind - seriously one of the good guys ! I know that everyone who knows Jerry is in shock & having trouble processing his death . My heart ❤ goes out to sweet Tracy , Jordan & Kendall ~ you know that you all were the light to his life !! He was the best boss & also a true friend ~ he will be dearly missed !
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Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011