Susie Edna Mays

Susie was born on April 15, 1921, in Elkton, KY, to Sam and Ownie Wisdom; alongside four siblings. She attended Todd County High School in Elkton, KY. Susie moved to Indianapolis, IN, in 1942. She met and married Charles Mays. She was a woman of service who found joy in making people feel their best. Through her years as a barber, she touched countless lives, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, love, and a job always done well.

Susie lived a vibrant life defined by her diverse passions. Whether she was gliding across a skating rink, tending to her beautiful garden, or losing track of time in a good book, she embraced every moment. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life—baking sweet treats, dancing to her favorite music, and gathering friends and family for lively games of cards and dominoes. A true cowgirl at heart, she loved the thrill of riding horses, just as she cherished the quiet focus of a sewing project. Even with a small stature, people knew that you “don’t mess with Sue”. She was a sassy lady that had a beautiful smile, sound advice and words of wisdom.

Susie was a pilar to the community and church family. She was a very confident woman, her walk, and her switch was impeccable. Susie was a strong, supportive and reliable person. As a praying woman of God, Susie joined Barnes United Methodist Church. For over 60 years, she warmly greeted her community as an usher, served as a dedicated steward, and was an active leader in the United Methodist Women (UMW).

Susie was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son (Carney Thurston), son, (Charles Mays Jr), grandson (Kenneth Thurston), and 4 siblings. She leaves to cherish her memory five generations: her daughter, Evangeline Thurston; her son, Roderick Mays; her daughter, Kymberly Mays Moran; 10 grandkids, 22 great grandkids; a host of great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Susie earned her reward, received her wings “Favour” Gods unmerited grace, approval & tangible blessing. “I will reward them” God promises a long life to the person who trusts him and loves him,

Psalms 91:16. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant!” A special thanks to her caretakers Viveca Mcintush and Keda Wooden.

Visitation will be held at Barnes United Methodist Church, 900 W 30th St, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208, on June 5, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at Barnes United Methodist Church at 1:00 pm on June 5, 2026.