James Edward Mays, age 81, of Sikeston, MO passed away November 28, 2025 at St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, MO.

He was born November 5, 1944 in Sikeston, MO, son of the late Edward Woodrow Mays and Audrey Mae Baker-Mays.

James was a Butcher for over 40 years at many stores in the area: McDonalds Food Mart in East Prairie, Stan's Foodmart, Larue & McKinney's Big Star, IGA, and Walmart all in Sikeston. He also worked for the Standard Democrat for 2 ½ years before retiring. He enjoyed woodworking-building shelves and Christmas decorations. He loved spending time with his family and telling stories. He enjoyed his coffee and Pop-Tarts.

On October 19, 1963 he was married to Patsy Sue Carlyle-Mays, she survives of the home in Sikeston, MO.

He is also survived by one son, James Anthony (Natalie) Mays of Cape Girardeau, MO; one daughter, Sandra Renae (Robert Allen) Kolwyck of Lilbourn, MO; and four grandchildren, Timothy John Tyler Brashear, Kelsey Nicole Mays, Drew Michael Berry, and Chloe Noelle Mays.

Visitation will be held Monday, December 1, from 11:00 a.m. until time of funeral services at 1:00 p.m. at Ponder Funeral Home. Brother Mike Cartwright will officiate.

Burial will follow in the Sikeston Garden of Memories Cemetery.