He lived his entire life in Copperas Cove until his passing on December 24, 2018.
James graduated from Copperas Cove High School in 1969, began working in construction, and married the love of his life, Kay Willingham.
James was surrounded by women his whole life. He was the only boy of 6 children, he raised 2 daughters, and volunteer coached girls softball for 10 years.
James rarely met a stranger and generally greeted you with a big smile, a handshake, and probably a joke. James May knew your name, he knew the team you rooted for, and he was always ready to help. He had no problem holding his own in a conversation. With calloused hands from years of laying brick he never passed up a chance to gently hold a baby.
James enjoyed dove hunting, chatting, crosswords, and Miller Lite. He loved the Houston Astros and finally got to see them win a World Series. He absolutely loved his entire family and was its most reliable member.
He is survived by his wife, of 46 years, Kay May, daughters Tara Walsh and husband Tim, and Tiffany Ledger and husband Austin; four grandchildren Abigail Walsh, Connor Walsh, Lane Ledger, and Lana Ledger; his sisters Janice Terry and husband Robert, Martha Spicer and husband Bobby, Jan Doyle and husband Chris, Nan Bales and husband Jamie and many nieces and nephews and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Kathryn Rose May.
A genuine, hardworking, family man that was as good as gold, he will be severely missed and long remembered.
A visitation is planned Saturday, December 29, from 5 pm to 7 pm at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, Copperas Cove. A memorial will be held Sunday, December 30, at 2 pm with a reception to follow at the same location.
