John Pershing Mays

John Pershing Mays, 94, of Madison Heights VA, died November 29, 2012 at Westminister Canterbury. Born March 30, 1918 in Amherst County, he was the son of the late Raleigh Clark Mays Sr. and Rosa Schultz Mays. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Raleigh Clark Mays Jr. and his daughter, Margaret Ellen Mays Mays. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Camden Mays, his sister Myrtle M Nelson of Brainerd MN, two sister-in-laws – Louise C. Barnes of Longmont CO and Beryl B Camden of Madison Heights, two sons - Donald L. Mays and wife Joanie of Gilroy CA, David L. Mays and wife Jean of Lynchburg , his son-in-law Claude W. Mays of Forest, seven grandchildren - Brian E. Mays, Cathy M. Patrick, Scott, Jennifer, Rebecca, Carolyn, and John A. Mays, also three great grandchildren, Nathan Patrick, Josie & Elodie Mays.

Mr. Mays was a graduate of Madison Heights High School. He served twice in the U.S. Navy including service during WW II aboard the destroyer minelayer, USS Shea, where he received the Purple Heart for wounds received when the ship was hit by a Japanese suicide plane during the invasion of Okinawa. He retired as maintenance supervisor from Lynchburg Foundry Company - lower basin after 40 years of service. He was a member of the American Legion and Amelon United Methodist Church.

John Pershing was a devoted family man who loved his family through countless acts of service. He took care of his mother-in-law, parents, and his wife throughout his life. During the past 9 years he devoted his life to caring for his wife during her illness. This past February he and his wife, Margaret, won the contest of the “Greatest Love Story” on WSET-TV. He will be missed by all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, December 3, at the Monelison Chapel of the Whitten’s Funeral Home in Madison Heights VA with Bishop Chuck Shorter officiating. Burial with military honors provided by American Legion – Post 16 will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. They will also meet with family and friends from 1:30 – 3 p.m. in the Hume Room, 3rd Floor at Westminister Canterbury, 501 V.E.S. Road, Lynchburg. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Gentle Shepherd Hospice, 22667 Timberlake Road, Lynchburg VA 24502 or the American Legion – Post 16, 1301 Greenview Drive, Lynchburg VA24502.