Garland L. Mays, Jr.

Garland Landseer Mays, Jr. was born on February 4, 1937, in Austin, Texas. He was the first-born child of Garland Landseer Mays, Sr., and Iva Dell Franklin.

A proud graduate of the original L.C. Anderson High School, Garland carried his Yellow Jacket spirit throughout his life. Following graduation, he attended Texas Southern University in Houston, TX before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Navy. After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned home to Austin to begin the next chapter of his journey.

With a keen eye for opportunity and a determined spirit, Garland pursued a career in real estate, working as an agent with W.G. Hunt & Co. His entrepreneurial drive later led him to St. Louis, Missouri, where he, his wife, and their son planted new roots. There, Garland proudly opened Mays Texas Barbecue, sharing both his Texas roots and his gift for great cooking. Known to many as the “Pit Master”, Garland’s barbecue quickly became a local favorite. More than a cook, he was a teacher, passing along his skills and secrets with a smile.

Garland had unmatched faith and a zeal for life. He believed with all his heart that he would walk again – holding on to that faith until the day the Lord called him home.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved aunt, Elnora Ates; and his siblings, Spencer Franklin, Charles Mays, and Iva Dell Franklin II.

To cherish his memory and celebrate his life, Garland leaves his wife of 37 years, Brenda Mays; his children, David Mays, Jacqueline Galloway (Daryl), Venita Mays, Paul Mays (Ingrid), Janet Munford (Henry), Donald Mays (Kimberly), Myrtle Carter, Leora Ellison, and Aubry Hart (Jean’na). Siblings, Kearie Franklin (Ann), Waudell Green (Alli), George Franklin, Jr., Debra Burgess (William), Bettye Stevenson (Fleet), Jacques Gordon (Mikki), and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, family, and friends who loved him dearly.