Mr. Michael Mays

Mr. Michael Mays passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2020 at Washington County Regional Medical Center. Graveside services were held on Saturday, August 29, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens with Elder David Bryant officiating.

Mr. Mays was born March 26, 1961 in Barnwell, South Carolina. He was the eldest child of Ms. Evelyn Wilson and Mr. Earnest Carrie.

Michael was educated in the Brooklyn, NY public school system, where he attended Thomas Jefferson High School. He spent most of his adult life in New York City, later moving to South Carolina, back to New York and lastly to Sandersville, GA. Michael had several occupational positions: textile operator, Graniteville, SC, carpenter at Worsky Carpentry, Queens, NY and for over ten (10) years with CV Brookins, Sandersville, GA. He was highly liked and well respected by management and peers.

He was affectionately known as “Spooky” or “Spook Dogg.” He was always ready for a game of cards and would not hesitate to show off his skills with a fishing pole or in front of a BBQ grill. Generous to a fault, charity was not a problem with him. He would give you his last. He was always the life of the party, being the loudest in the room! His laugh was so unique. Regardless of his situations, his heart was always pure and about the next person.

One of Michael's greatest joys was his grandson , Tamyr “Tookie” Barnes. Tookie was like the son he never had. Their bond was unbreakable, they did everything together. Another joy was his granddaughter Ellarose Buskirk, his Rosie. The grandchildren loved to ride the lawn mower with their pop-pop and listen and dance to his oldies but goody music. He was their everything and more.

Mr. Mays leaves to cherish his memories, his parents: Ms. Evelyn Wilson, Sandersville, GA, Mr. Earnest Carrie, Williston, SC; two daughters: Ms. Nyesha Barnes, Ms. Tamara Barnes, Binghamton, NY; one stepson: Mr. Lawrence Joiner, Mobile, AL; two grandchildren: Mr. Tamyr Barnes, Ms. Ellarose Buskirk; Binghamton, NY; siblings: Mr. Larry Mays, Williston, SC, Mrs. Barbara (Michael) Dickerson, Brooklyn, NY, Mr. James (Shirley) Young, Aiken, SC, Mrs. Tammy (Jeffrey) Brown, Williston, SC, Mrs. Annie Jean (Ricky) Banks, Anderson, SC, Ms. Thomasina Toney, Ms. Samantha Toney, Williston, SC, Mr. Arthur (Sherrie) Felder, Mr. John (Waskihiea) Toney, Barnwell, SC, Elder David (Yamile) Bryant, Williston, SC, Mr. Harry (Cassandra) Bellinger, Elko, SC, Mr. Terry Bellinger, Mr. Bridget Bellinger, Atlanta, GA, Mr. Greg Toney, Cleveland, TN, Mr. Lance Davis, Smoke, SC, Ms. Jan Ray, Sandersville, GA; one uncle: Mr. James Mays, Williston, SC; devoted niece: Ms. Banesha Mays (Maurice) Stephens; great nephews: Mr. Maurice Stevens, Jr., Mr. Mahki Stevens; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Michael went far and beyond when it came to protecting his family and helping others, for this he will be truly missed. M.C. Smith Funeral Home in charge.