Billy Lamar May, 86, passed from his earthly journey to his Heavenly home Saturday, August 31, at his home.

Billy lived a lifetime of service to his family, friends, and church. He was a kind, caring and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, co-worker and friend.

Bill is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara Tharp May; his sons, Billy Wayne May and Chris May (Connie); grandsons, Christopher and Matthew; granddaughters, Jessica (Blake) and Megan, Kayla (Austin); great grandsons, Rook and Banner; great granddaughters, Pasley and Emmylou; sister-in-law, Alice (David) Carolus; brother-in-law, Wayne (Diana) Tharp; sister,
Laverne (Don) Jolly; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Billy was born January 28, 1938, in the Seneasha community of Attala County. He spent his life dedicated to the happiness and wellbeing of all he knew. Billy was ordained as a deacon at Calvary Baptist Church in 1971. Billy served the church in whatever capacity he was asked, from teaching preschoolers to adult classes. He worked in vacation bible school. He loved teaching children. At the time of his passing, he was a member of Main Street Baptist Church in Goodman. He truly loved his family, especially his grandchildren, and always tried to set a good example for them.

He had a fulfilling career of more than 50 years as a medical technologist ASCP. His longest tenure was at Street Clinic/Sisters of Mercy Hospital where he worked primarily in the blood bank. He was called a blood bank vampire and often remembered blood types of the patient before their name. After returning to Attala County, he worked at Montfort Jones Hospital in Kosciusko and later the University of Mississippi Medical Hospital in Durant, Miss.

Billy graduated from Holmes Agricultural High School in 1956; Holmes Junior College Goodman in 1958; and Mississippi
State University and Street Clinic School of Medical Technology in 1960.

At the request of the immediate family, there will not be a public burial service. A memorial service will be held Wednesday September 18, at 6 p.m. at Main Street Baptist Church, 9857 Main St. Goodman, MS.

In Lieu of flowers, please pass along an act of kindness for someone else as a way to truly honor his memory

Culpepper Funeral Home of Kosciusko is in charge of arrangements.