Mayriyada Singleton

Mayriyada Penwilai Singleton, lovingly known as May, passed away on March 2, 2026. She was born in Chaiyaphum Sam Suan, Thailand, to Tongpet Palanisong and Samain Phiset. Raised by her mother, May grew up strong in faith and family. She returned every year to Surin, Thailand, to reconnect with loved ones and to renew her spiritual roots.

An avid learner and talented chef, May became a successful entrepreneur, running her restaurant, Chicken World, in Pattaya, Thailand. After moving to the United States, she worked at Kin Thai Zabb Restaurant, Boa Boa Vietnamese Restaurant, and Cone Health Wesley Long in Nutrition and Food Services. Known for her remarkable work ethic and warm personality, she was even featured in a hospital commercial-something that brought her great pride.

May loved food, travel, and new experiences. Her favorite meal was seafood noodle soup, and she especially enjoyed dining at Lao Kitchen. She traveled throughout Malaysia, Hong Kong, England, and the United States.

In 2018, May began her greatest adventure-love. Across 9,000 miles and against all odds, May met her soulmate and future husband, Demetrius. They saw each other for the first time in 2019 and were married on February 24, 2021, finally making their union official. Their relationship was built on deep care, devotion, fun, and laughter. They enjoyed spending time together visiting Asian restaurants, flea markets, and Asian stores in every city they traveled.

Her children remember May as an amazing cook who taught them to enjoy Asian cuisine and how to use chopsticks properly. They are grateful for the happiness she brought to their father. May, Thaa to the grandkids, was always feeding the babies or running around behind them. Being with family and talking about her family in Thailand brought her great joy.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband, Demetrius; her mother, Tongpet Palanisong; her mother-in-love, Delois Sample; her children, Sydney Kaylyn Singleton (Kennis Hunter, Jr) and Neala Elana Singleton; and her grandchildren, Athena Jade Singleton Hunter and Casius Ares Singleton Hunter.

May will be remembered for her kindness, joyful spirit, and the light she brought to those around her. Her love and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Buddhist Blessing

May the merit of her life bring peace to her journey.

May she be free from suffering and rest in serenity.

May the love she shared continue to ripple through the hearts of all who knew her.

And may her spirit move forward on its path with peace and light.