James Edward Mays

James “Edward” Mays, of Sikeston, passed away on November 12, 2026, at Missouri Delta Medical Center at the age of 75. He was born on March 29, 1951, in Savannah, Tennessee, to Forrest Douglas and Mable O’Dean (Tuner) Mays.

Edward is survived by his siblings, Herbert Mays (Christin) of Lilbourn, Missouri, and Douglas Mays (Susan) of O’Fallon, Missouri; his sister-in-law, Sherry Mays of Portageville, Missouri; his life partner, Valerie Brooks of Perryville, Missouri; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Mable Mays, and his siblings, Tessie Thompson, Dorothy Wagner, Edgar Mays, and Richard Mays.

Edward was a veteran of the United States Army and previously worked as a certified nursing assistant in the healthcare industry and, most recently, worked alongside Valerie at Hobby Lobby. He enjoyed expressing his creativity through drawing and painting, as well as whittling wood. These hobbies allowed him to share his artistic talents and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Arrangements are pending at this time.

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