Saturday, March 14th, 2015
John May
John W. May, 91, Jacksonville, Fla., and formerly of Colorado Springs, Colo., passed away at 9:56 a.m. March 3, 2015, at Haven Hospice Custead Care Center, Orange Park, Clay County, Fla.
He was born at 3 p.m. Dec. 17, 1923, to the late Richard May and Lizzie Strete, both of Rockford. On Nov. 14, 1942, in Chattanooga, he married Wilma Grace Becher, who died April 23, 2010.
Surviving are children, Patricia L. Collins (son-in-law, Nelson Smith), two granddaughters, Julie Lewis and Jennifer Winters; and David W. May (daughter-in-law, Pati Jo), grandchildren, Brian and Jessica. Son John T. May (daughter-in-law, Cindy) preceded John and Wilma in death, grandchildren Chad and Tiffany. John leaves behind 11 great-grandchildren.
John attended Rockford High School where he met his wife, the love of his life. Their proudest family moments were producing three children who grew up to be wonderful contributors to society.
He was taught at a young age the value of frugality and discipline, living a hard farm life during the depression days. When World War II broke out, he felt great pride in serving his country and participating in the Battle of the Bulge (Ardennes).
After two years and 11 months in Europe, Army life was left behind in February 1946, but it beckoned him back in 1959. He found himself on Okinawa (Ryukyu Islands) without his family for 18 months. He was sent to Washington, D.C., to meet with President Kennedy upon making Soldier of the Year in 1963.
During the Cold War he served in Berlin, Germany. His Vietnam service earned him the Bronze Star. Assignments included Seattle, San Francisco and several tours in Europe. Twenty-one years of military life ended and "Snow-Bird," traveling from Colorado Springs and Tucson, Ariz., took priority. Throughout his life he loved to fish, camp, garden and travel - anything to do with the outdoors.
His greatest hope was always that his dear family would be able to pass to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren their greatest asset - the ability to get along with people and to share his love of learning. He often said "I've had a good life!"
Memorial services are 1:30 p.m. March 23 in the chapel at Allegro Assistant Living Facility, 3651 U.S. 17, Fleming Island, FL 32003.
Arrangements are being handled by Hardage-Giddens Rivermead Funeral Home, 127 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, Fla.
