Ollie Beatrice Mays

Ollie Beatrice “Bea” Mays passed on peacefully on May 18, 2026, at the age of 87, having been born on September 7, 1938, and residing in Abilene, Texas. Ollie was Born in Sawyerville, Alabama, in Hale County, she was the beloved daughter of Mable Cooper and Richard McCruter.

Bea attended Alabama A&M University in Huntsville, Alabama, before beginning a long and dedicated career with West Texas Legal Services, where she faithfully served for more than 30 years before retiring in 2012.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mable Cooper; her husband, retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Thomas Howard Mays II; and several beloved aunts and uncles. As a proud military wife, Bea traveled the world alongside her husband, living in Germany, Korea, and Illinois before the family made their home in Texas to raise their children.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Thomas Howard Mays III, Helen Felicia Mays, Lew Kenyatta Mays, and Laurice Marie Mays; along with her cherished grandchildren, Angelo Thomas Mays and Shandi Leigh Lawrence.

Bea enjoyed traveling, gardening, bird watching, and spending time playing cards with friends and loved ones. She was also a devoted member of the Antioch C.M.E church in Abilene, Texas.

Her final resting place will be in her hometown of Sawyerville, Alabama, where a private memorial will be held beside her mother, grandparents, and other family members.

In lieu of flowers, cards or any other gifts may be sent to her family in Abilene, Texas.