William "Tom" Mays

William "Tom" Mays, a devoted family man and cherished member of his community, passed away on April 2, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on June 21, 1939, in Dayton, Ohio, Tom was known for his warm and welcoming personality. He was always very loving and accepting, traits that endeared him to many. His friendly and chatty nature made him a joy to be around, bringing light and laughter into the lives of those who knew him.

Tom proudly served in the United States Army. He had a deep passion for history and enjoyed learning about the past, which reflected his inquisitive mind. His interests were diverse; he found joy in planes, trains, and automobiles, and spent many fulfilling hours working on classic vehicles.

He is survived by a loving family, including his sister Byrle Rankin and her son Darrin and his wife April, stepson Terry Dalton and his wife Pam, granddaughter Casey Brewer and her husband Rocky, grandsons Robert Firch and his wife Yonnie, Shawn Firch and his wife Veronica, granddaughters Carina Sorrell and her husband Aaron, Erica Loveridge and her husband Jody, Melissa Armstrong and her husband Glenn, Monica Wiley and her husband Mike, grandson Luke Dalton and his wife Jamie. Tom also leaves behind great-grandchildren Jason Firch, Kaitlyn Nicholson and her husband Brad, Ryan Wells and Victoria, Trent William Kessler and his wife Sierra, and Kaiden Firch along with numerous nieces, nephews, and great-great grandchildren who will carry on his legacy of love and acceptance.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rosezala Mays; parents, Harlan and Drucilla Mays; his brothers, James "Jim" Mays; Robert "Bob" Mays, Charles "Charlie" Mays, Butch Mays; his sister Marlene Hank; his sister Lois Smith; stepson Toney Dalton and grandson Jamey Firch.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at Newcomer Funeral Home in Kettering on April 16, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 11:00 AM. Thereafter, Tom will be interred at Dayton National Cemetery.

Tom's memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him, serving as a reminder of the importance of love, acceptance, and the simple joys of life.