Mabel Jean Mayes (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Mabel “Jean” Mayes, a cherished mother, wife, friend of many, and devoted member of her community, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on July 27, 1936, in San Antonio, Texas, Jean was the cherished daughter of Orville and Sylvia Mason. In the heart of San Antonio, she met and fell in love with Wayne Mayes, a love that blossomed into marriage on December 19, 1952. Together they raised five children sharing a life rich in love and commitment.
Jean's journey took her from the warmth of Texas to the hills of Tennessee and later to Cleveland, Ohio, before settling near Tecumseh, Michigan. Her steadfast support was essential as Wayne pursued his calling, planting and nurturing churches throughout their travels. Their devotion to their faith culminated in the founding of Heritage Baptist Church in Bolivar, a testament to their lifelong commitment to faith, community, and service.
Jean was known for her vibrant spirit, characterized by her spunky and sassy personality, and she possessed a wonderful sense of humor that brightened the lives of all who knew her. A passionate gardener, she found joy in cultivating flowers and creating treasured scrapbooks filled with family memories. Jean also had a well-known fondness for ice cream, particularly butter pecan. She always found a way to cherish the simple pleasures of life.
Jean is survived by her five children: Wayne Mayes Jr. (Pennie), Jeannie Womack (Lewis), Randy Mayes (Marcy), Doug Mayes (Marlene), and David Mayes (Sheri). She also leaves behind an adoring legacy, including grandchildren Bobby Mayes, Richard McCreary, Matthew McCreary, Patty McCreary, Andrew Mayes, Luke Mayes, Nathan Mayes, Randi Jo Provance, Makayla Nale, and Heather Strouse, as well as 15 great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her brother Kenneth Mason of the Albuquerque, New Mexico area. Jean is preceded in death by her devoted husband Wayne and nine siblings.
Jean will be lovingly remembered for her strength, warmth, and the joy she brought to those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of faith and love that will continue to be felt by her family and the community she dearly cherished.
Services for Mabel will be held at 3:00 PM Monday, February 3, 2025, at the Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar. Visitation for Mabel will take place in hour before service starting at 2:00 PM. Burial will take place immediately following the service at Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar. Memorial donations may be made to the Baptist Homes and Healthcare Ministries https://give.bhhm.org/checkout/25763 or to the Alzheimer's Association. https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=32112&32112.donation=form1
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