HUDSON -- On Friday, September 26, 2008, Andrew Matthew Mays was tragically taken from us to be with the Lord as a result of a motorcycle accident.
He was born August 23, 1989 and has called many places in Ohio home, including Hudson, Loveland, Akron, Defiance, Kent and New Philadelphia. He had a big heart and was a great friend to many, especially his family. Kind, brilliant, noble, loving and funny, Andrew was always ready with a witty comment to make you smile. He lived a short but fast life, and will be sadly missed and always loved.
He enjoyed football and basketball, sports cars and motorcycles, and spending time with friends and family. He attended church at The Salvation Army in Ravenna, Batavia and Dover. A 2007 graduate of Hudson High School, Andrew was a painter for Hudson Painting and a student at Kent State Twinsburg Center.
He is survived by his mother, Maelene Mays-Rodriguez; his brother, Caleb Mays; sisters, Isabella and Sophia; and brother, Dominic Rodriguez; and step-father, Thomas Rodriguez. His many family members include grandparents, Milton and Martha Mays; aunts and uncles, Martha, Mary, Miriam, Milton (Terri), Michael (Tami) Mays; Michel (Wayne) Short; Milsah (Darren) Bolen; and Manda Mays. He had many loving cousins, including Ian Heter; Alexis Polce; Ryan, Christopher, Matthew, Logan, Benjamin, Noah Mays; Joshua, Nathan, Rachel, Daniel Short; Dallas, Devan Bolen; Mandy Brown. Andrew was preceded in death by his loving uncle, Matthew Mays.
Friends may call Tuesday 12 to 2 and 5 to 8 p.m. at Redmon Funeral Home. There will be no service. Andrew's video tribute may be seen at www.redmonfuneralhome.com
(REDMON, STOW, 330-688-6631)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jeanne Marie Stumpf
December 5, 2008
I want to extend my condolences to Andrew's family and friends. I only knew him for four weeks before his very untimely demise. Andrew was enrolled in my class in Human Evolution at Kent State University, Twinsburg. I already knew him to be an enthusiatic and intelligent student. I believe that his loss must be sorely felt by all. I hope the spirit of the family who raised such a wonderful young man can sustain all of you. I wanted you to know that I believe that Andrew was a messenger of that spirit.
Stephanie Matheny
October 24, 2008
I am so sorry about Andrew. I can't imagine the pain and grief that you are experiencing with the untimeliness of his passing. He was much to young. What I remember about Andrew was his smile and how polite he was to me everytime I saw him. He will be greatly missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sonya O'Connor
October 10, 2008
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Marki Stitzel
October 9, 2008
Maelene and Family,
My boyfriend went to Kent State with Andrew. I would hear only but good things about him and he sounded like a great guy. I'm really sorry about your loss and I will keep your family in my prayers.
Marki
Maggie E. Mays
October 6, 2008
May your memories of Andy sustain you at this very difficult time.
Cathy Williams
October 4, 2008
All those who knew and loved Andrew have my deepest sympathy. My daughter, Heather, graduated from HHS with Andrew. I can only begin to imagine what a difficult time this is for so many and I share in your time of grief.
I happened to pass by the scene of the accident shortly after it occurred, witnessing the truck lying on it's side and the motorcycle lying next to it. At that time, I had no idea who had been involved in the accident. But my heart immediately ached for anyone involved.
It is evident by the entries in this guest book that Andrew was deeply loved. Hopefully, knowing this and placing your faith in God will bring you peace.
Jim Leopardi
October 3, 2008
A wonderful boy from a wonderful family, recalled by God in the prime of life. May God grant him eternal peace.
Lorie Vinson
October 2, 2008
To Andrew's family,
My son Chet was a classmate of Andrew's at Hudson High school. Even though Chet is away at school he was touched my Andrews passing. I am so sorry about your loss, my prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Lorie Vinson
Joe & Suzanne Capannelli
October 2, 2008
To all of you-We just wanted to send our deepest sympathy to you during this painful time. Drew and Mike were in school together and we were all sad to hear of this tragedy. We pray that you find comfort and strength in our Lord, and the knowledge that you will see Drew again. May his memory bring you joy through your tears. Our hearts go out to you. The Capannelli Family
Rick and Amy Barker
October 2, 2008
Dear Maelene,
My heart goes out to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Roberts
October 1, 2008
I was looking at the paper and sadly saw a familiar face in the obituaries. I was shocked and saddened to read of Andrew's passing. I am a mother who volunteered at school.(Loveland) My daughter Natalie was in Andrew's class. I met a lot of kids through the years but some kids just seemed to stand out.That is the case with your Andrew. His smile was quite remarkable:)You could just tell he was special. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all as I am sure your hearts must be breaking. Praying that now "angelic" smile will give you comfort and peace.
Margaret Tensing
October 1, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
Kalie Giffin
October 1, 2008
Dear Maelene & Family
Im really sorry about your son Andrew. He was such a wonderful person. He made everyone laugh. He was beyond amazing. You're in my prayers
Love,
Kalie Giffin
Delilah (Wenger) Ryan
September 30, 2008
Dear Maelene & Family
So sorry to hear about the lose of your son, grandson, brother, and cousin Andrew. You and your family are in my prayers.
Jennifer Goldenberg
September 30, 2008
I was so sad as well as shocked to hear of Andrew's passing. I was one on Andrew's 4th grade teachers, and I just adored him. My thoughts are with the family.
Jen Goldenberg
Thamarai Subramanian
September 30, 2008
I am so sorry about your loss and please accept my deepest sympathy. Andrew is sweet, very polite and always smiling. He will continue to live in hearts of those who dearly miss him.
Dawn Rickman
September 30, 2008
I was very sorry to hear about Andrew. Your family is in my prayers.
What a moving video tribute! Andrew was blessed to have had such a loving family. Please find comfort in that he is now with God but Andrew's love for you will never end.
Linda Rudolph
September 30, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathy. You and your family are in my prayers.
Cindy Horne
September 30, 2008
I am so sorry about your loss.
I have been praying for you every day, since I heard. May God comfort you as only He can during your time of sorrow.
Subodh-Nidhi Gauniyal
September 30, 2008
Maelene,
We are so sorry for your loss. Andrew was such a strong, loving child, always smiling - that's how we remember him from everytime we met. We hope and pray your family finds the strength to face this grave tragedy. Please do let us know if there is anything we can do for you.
Denise Ross
September 30, 2008
Maelene & Family. I am so sorry to hear about Andrew's passing. He was a very handsome boy. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
George Moxon
September 30, 2008
My condolences to the family. I met him briefly when he was painting my house. He was a good guy and will be missed. My prayers are with the family.
Matthew Mathis
September 30, 2008
Im so sorry for your loss. Andrew was such a great young man. I'am so sad as to what happend. Words can't describe. My prayers go out to you and your family and friends. God bless all..
richard e mercer
September 30, 2008
Maelene sorry to hear on lost of your son Andrew God bless Richie Mercer
Nancy Trachsel
September 29, 2008
My Dearest Maelene and Family; It saddened my Heart to hear of Andrew's death.. He is a very handsome young man..My deepest Sympathy is with you at this time, I love you Maelene, Your Friend Nancy Trachsel (Pyle) and Family..
Joanne Schmitz
September 29, 2008
Dear May Family,
Please accept my condolances. Although you do not know me, I was deeply moved by Andrew's beautiful video tribute. You are im my thoughts and prayers.
Julie McCoy (HMS Secretary)
September 29, 2008
Dear Maelene & Family,
I was so moved by the video of Andrew and so sorry for your loss. He was a beautiful young man that will be remembered by those who knew him. My prayers are with you, Caleb and your family.
Bev Jerauld-Squirrell
September 29, 2008
Andrew's smile will be forever a picture I remember. I'm thankful that our families lives have intertwined. Joshua loved playing and wrestling with Andrew during our Thanksgiving visits. He was never too busy to play with the little ones. Be assured of my thoughts and prayers.
Bev
Jeanne Romani
September 29, 2008
Maelene, Thomas, Isabella, and family ~ you have been in my constant thoughts and prayers; please know how many people care for you and your beautiful family, especially now in this difficult time. I am sending heartfelt hugs to you all.
jeanie & family short
September 29, 2008
our family will be keeping andrew's family and friends in our daily thoughts and prayers
Pamela Brooke
September 29, 2008
I do not know anyone in this family, but I feel close because of the tribute video. I was moved beyond words, my deepest sympathy and prayers will be with you. Such a loss, be strong.
Vinita Bakhshi
September 29, 2008
My Dear Maelene,
I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I could be with you to comfort you in your grief. My prayers are with you and the family. May God be with you. Andrew will be missed by all who knew him in any way.
Clyde Menezes
September 29, 2008
Maelene and Family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Andrew's untimely passing. He was a kind and caring young man, always polite and respectful. Charming and witty, I enjoyed the brief chats and his sense of humor. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sheila, Kirt, Evan & Ethan Jackson
September 29, 2008
Maelene and Family,
We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. It is very sad to loose a child at such a young age. God will grant you peace to go on. Please take Care.
Brittany Wagner
September 29, 2008
I accidently came across this. I am sincerely sorry for your loss. He seems to be an amazing son brother & friend to everyone. What surprised me was that we have the exact same birthday and same interests especially in bikes. you are all in my hearts and prayers.
much love
Brenda & Dakota Cochran
September 29, 2008
Dear Maelene and family,
I was so very SORRY to hear of your loss. I know he will be missed and remembered by many! I added your family to our prayer list at church. I pray that you can find peace in this difficult moment of life.
Chuck Gough
September 29, 2008
Maelene,
I was so sorry to hear about Andrew. My thoughts are with you and your family. You have my deepest sympathy in your loss.
Jackie McBee
September 29, 2008
To Martha and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nate Wert
September 29, 2008
I am deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Charles Fehl
September 29, 2008
Dear Maelene and Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of Andrew. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
G M
September 29, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about Andrew. He was a great guy with smile on his face always. He will always be remembered.
Jacci Childs
September 29, 2008
There are no words to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family, Maelene. I hope God our Father is holding you close. May Jesus' love and salvation bring you comfort. My love to you and yours.
Dottie Foster-Turner
September 29, 2008
To Martha and her family,
I was sorry to read of your nephew's untimely passing. My heart goes out to you and your family during this tragic time.
Sincerely,
Cousin Donna
September 29, 2008
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Danielle Parker
September 29, 2008
I'm very sorry for your loss. Andrew was a loving and caring person. He will be greatly missed. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
E K
September 29, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, ""I welcome you.""
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......""My day was not in vain.""
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
David Briggs
September 29, 2008
I do not know Andrew or any of his family. But, because I had never seen a tribute video online like this, I was curious and watched it. I wish that I had not - it was so very moving and brought tears to my eyes. My heart aches for any parent and any family that loses a child. Because of his age and the suddenness of his untimely death, I feel compelled to write to let the family know that even those who don't know you feel a deep sense of sympathy. From the photos, he was so young and handsome and strong and happy and so full of life. What a horrible tragedy for all of. Grief is the price we pay for love. But the love you had in life does not end with his death. Just as you still love him, so, too, does he continue to love you. Feel his love all around you. Find comfort in this love and count your lives blessed for having him in it if only for a short 19 years. You will be in my prayers.
Lisa VanBuskirk
September 29, 2008
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We are all thinking of your family at this sad time. Hudson United Methodist Nursery School staff
Robert Everett
September 29, 2008
Dear Mom & Family,
What a horrible tragedy to have such a young man taken from you. I recognized the one gentleman in a picture in the tribute from the Dover Salvation Army and maybe have even seen Andrew a time or two. I retired from Dover Police a couple years ago and before leaving Dover, frequently made stops at the Salvation Army with things from home.
May God be with you and yours during this time of grief. That was a beautiful tribute you should be so proud!!!
Stacey Lynn Moll
September 29, 2008
To the Mays family and (Caleb),I am so sorry to hear about Andrew .He was such a funny guy and always smiling .I drove him and still drive Caleb to school .My prayers are with you all.
Redmon Funeral Home Inc.
September 29, 2008
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Rosie Standish
September 28, 2008
I cannot believe Mays "Hayes" is gone from this earth. Ever the polite fellow to me when talking with him. Clinton was very saddened to hear of your loss as well. He always liked your son. Maelene, I am so sorry for your pain.
Rosie Standish (former Hudson football mom)
Aunt Louise
September 28, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
Denise Ickes
September 28, 2008
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you as always. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you or your family in your time of need.
Roberta Ickes
September 28, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about Andrew. I doubt that I will be able to attend the funeral as right now I am not able to drive Roberta Ickes and family
Sue Hovan
September 28, 2008
We are deeply saddened to hear about your son, Andrew. He always had a wave and smile when he passed by. Our hearts and prayers go out to your family upon this very tragic loss. May God help you through your grief.
Your neighbors, Joe and Sue, Julianna and Jonathan Hovan
donna blackerby
September 28, 2008
so sorry to hear of your loss
i used to work with isabella
my heart goes out to your family in this time of great sorrow
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