June 29, 1983 – December 17, 2022
Matthew Ray Mays, age 39, went to be with The Lord on the morning of December 17, 2022. Matthew left this world doing what he loved the most, driving his boat to his latest and greatest duck hunting spot.
Matthew was born June 29, 1983, in Houston, TX to Morris Ray and Sherry Yvonne Mays. He grew up in Friendswood, TX where he graduated from Clear Brook High School in 2001. On September 18, 2001, he enlisted in the United States Air Force after committing to service his senior year of high school. He devoted 20 years to the service and protection of his country and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant.
SSgt Matthew Mays began his service at Lackland AFB with basic training in 2001 before moving to Ft. Leonard Wood for vehicle operator school. SSgt Mays began his active-duty assignment at Langley AFB in 2002. In 2004, SSgt Mays was deployed to Mosul, Iraq to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom as part of the first full fight to serve under the Big Red One, where he was among the first Airmen to drive convoys in combat in Iraq. In 2005, SSgt Mays moved from active duty to the Air Force Reserves at Kelly Field, then Ellington field, and later Langley AFB. In 2010, SSgt Mays served as an intelligence analyst with the Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Midland, TX. In 2012, SSgt Mays joined the Civil Engineer Squadron and attended Pavements and Construction Equipment technical school at Ft. Leonard Wood where he graduated top of his class. SSgt Mays fulfilled multiple temporary duty assignments before retiring from service in July 2021.
Matthew was a believer and held strong to his faith in Jesus. He loved his family fiercely and was a devoted son, brother, uncle, and friend. He always looked after each of them and was committed to their protection. Nothing made him happier than spending time with those he loved, including his two cherished dogs, Tulip & Maggie. Matt was curious and adventurous; he loved to be outdoors exploring, hunting, and fishing. One of his favorite places to be was the family homeplace in Arkansas. Matt was a selfless man who found joy through helping people and bringing new experiences to others. He towered above most, made friends with anyone he encountered, and is remembered for his contagious smile.
Matthew was preceded in death by his grandparents, Oland and Annabelle Mays; grandparents, Melvin and Sharon Gilliam; uncle, Mitchell Gilliam; and cousin, Michael Mays. He is survived by his father and mother, Moe and Sherry Mays; his sister, Melissa and husband, James Tittle; niece, Hannah; nephew, Graham; his brother, Mason Mays and wife, Melissa; and nephews, Garrett, Carson, and Hunter; and many other relatives and cherished friends.
Friends are cordially invited to the visitation with the family on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 A.M. at The Harbor, 2821 W. Parkwood Ave., Friendswood, TX 77546 with Dr. Eddie Simmons and Dr. David Miller officiating. He will be buried at Tulip Cemetery in Carthage, AR at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to one of the following organizations in honor of Matthew Ray Mays. Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org or Pastoral & Chaplain Services at https://www.pcsministries.org/givenow
7 thoughts on “SSgt Matthew Ray Mays”
Matthew was a kind soul who always brightened the day of whoever he came into contact with. We are grateful for his friendship and service and are comforted that he is with Jesus today. Love and prayers to the entire Mays family.
Morris Ray, Sherry and family. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of you for your loss. Though we never met Matt, we feel we have grown closer to him and know him through all of your tributes and photos you have posted. We thank you for that.
A donation has been made in honor of Matthew to Wounded Warriors.
With love from your cousins in Montana (Jeanne and family), Colorado (Wes and family), Georgia (Kathy and family) and South Carolina (Vickie and family). May peace be with you.
I never knew Matt but know that he is one of God's children. I am so sorry for your family loss and pray that peace be with your family
Still doesn’t seem real.. My sincere thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends.. Matt ,I can honestly say you made me laugh every time we spoke.. Glad I had the opportunity to fish with you and Just know you as a person.. I won’t forget our convos and what you did for the Air Force/ANG.. Thank you for being who you were! Rest in Paradise Brother. 🕊️
Matthew was a genuinely kind and thoughtful friend. He always went out of his way to support and listen to those close to him. His infectious smile and positive attitude brought joy to everyone around him. Even in difficult times, he remained unwavering in his loyalty and dedication. His absence is deeply felt by those who were fortunate enough to have known him, but his memory will always be cherished. Matthew truly embodied the qualities of a good friend, and his impact on those he touched will never be forgotten.
Love ya my brother.
Moe, Sherry,
Just heard Moe on Dominique's podcast. My deepest sympathies on the loss of your son. May God comfort you through your grief.
Thank you for sharing with us.
Sincerely,
Janet Jaken
God bless you and your family!!🇺🇸🙏