James Lawrence “Larry” Mays, 85 went to be with the Lord on March 5, 2023 with his wife of nearly 65 years holding his hand. He was greeted in heaven by his parents Martha and Stanley, his two brothers Don and Bobby, his beloved in laws Mary Louise and Sam Purcell and his Great Grandson Wilder Owen.
Larry was born in Lexington Kentucky on December 12, 1937. And graduated from Manuel high school in Louisville Kentucky in 1955. Early in their marriage Larry and Myrna moved from Kentucky to Illinois where he enjoyed being an active part in the church, working with the youth and serving as a church deacon, snowmobiling, camping with his wife and four children, motocross with his son, and eventually spending time with his grandchildren. He worked as an electrician for the majority of his career, with the bulk of his time as lead electrician of Marriott’s Great America. Larry and Myrna moved to Florida in 1993 returned to Illinois for 8 years; returned in January 2023 with plans to stay until called home.
Larry is survived by his wife Myrna of Louisville Kentucky, his four children Selena (Lee) Liotta, Sheila (Dan) Stojanovic, Larry Mays and Shawn (Chris) Trotti, his eight Grandchildren, nine Great Grandchildren and one Great-Great Grandson. His family continued to be his greatest accomplishment and source of love and pride until his last breath.
Larry, Dad, Papa, was a man of little words with a rarely seen yet beautiful smile and the most paralyzing blue eyes. He loved a good joke and always wrapped it up with his classic snort. He was often found watching TV while resting his eyes and playing solitaire on his beloved iPad. He was loyal to his family and friends and was always willing to offer a helping hand to those in need. To know him was most definitely to love him!
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made in Larry’s name to St. Jude’s Children Hospital. The family wishes to extend their gratitude in advance for all donations.