William Douglas "Bill" May

William Douglas May, affectionately known as Bill to his friends and family, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 75 in Lexington, Kentucky after a short illness. Born on October 30, 1950, in Ashland, Kentucky, Bill grew up to become a pillar of strength and character in his community.

His commitment to his nation was evident through his 35 years of service in the United States Army and Army National Guard. He served on active duty from 1973-1976 at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas and in Korea specializing in air defense systems. After leaving active duty, Bill entered the Army National Guard reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He served as Commander and in various other capacities with National Guard units in Ashland, Cynthiana, Richmond and Frankfort over the next 31 years. During most of this time, Bill also worked full-time for the United States Property and Fiscal Office (USPFO) at Boone Center in Frankfort, KY. Following retirement in 2008, Bill continued to serve his community as a faithful Trustee at the Paris First Methodist Church, living out his Christian faith with humility and steadfastness. He was a beacon of guidance, known for his faith-filled nature, an embodiment of a man who walked his talk.

Bill was also revered for his intellect and was proud of his educational achievements, graduating from Morehead State University in 1972 and culminating in a Master's Degree in Public Affairs from Kentucky State University. This laid the foundation for a career marked by dedication, integrity, and excellence.

In his personal life, Bill was the beloved husband of Rebecca Brisker May. Together, they raised two daughters, Dr. Megan May and Kara (William) Atwood, and cherished the joy of having five grandchildren: Jonah, Parker, Annie, Charlotte, and David, who filled their grandfather's life with laughter and love. His family was the center of his universe, and he was theirs.

Bill was a man of many passions. He was especially gifted with his hands and enjoyed doing handyman things around the house. His passion for fixing, building, and creating was only matched by the love he had for spending time with his grandchildren-who will remember him for his gentle wisdom, his encouraging words, and the warmth of his friendly smile. Bill also enjoyed traveling all over the country with his grandchildren and with Becky, but especially to Maine each fall to enjoy their lobster and blueberry pies.

He is survived by his wife and children, grandchildren, his sister-in-law Sue Brisker, and several cousins. They will remember Bill as a cornerstone of their lives and cherish the memories they created together. Preceded in death by his parents, Charles May and Georgia Crump May, and his sister, Hope May, Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and commitment to family and faith.

Bill's life is a testament to the impact one individual can have on so many. His absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew him, but his spirit will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have been touched by his friendship, love, and exemplary life. Bill May's journey on earth is complete, but his story will live on in the hearts and memories of all he embraced.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM Monday February 23, 2026, at the Paris First Methodist Church, 617 Pleasant St., Paris, KY by Rev. Eliseo Mejia and Rev. Ken Southworth. Burial to follow in the Paris Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3-6 PM Sunday February 22, 2026, at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Pelfrey, Gerald Porter, William Atwood, Jonah Atwood, Parker Atwood and David Atwood. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Klinefelter, Chris Gast, Stan Mattox, Bob Scott, John Fuller, Tom Crump and Jeff Crump.

Memorials may take the form of contributions to the Paris First Methodist Church and Bluegrass Care Navigators.

The funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY. The online guestbook is at www.Lusk-McFarland.comand a 24-hour funeral information line can be reached by calling 859-987-4387.